Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
