Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and led officials to halt over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
