Powerful gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
