Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, while agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
