Intense gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though officials report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
