Intense gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
