Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
