Powerful winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
