Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
