Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
