Intense gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
