Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
