Intense gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
