Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
