Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
