Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
