Intense gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
