Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been halted due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
