Severe gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
