Intense gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
