Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
