Intense winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to cancel over 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
