Powerful gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
