Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
