Powerful gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
