Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
