Intense winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, though officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
