Powerful gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, although agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
