Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
