Powerful winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
