Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
