Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
