Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
