Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
