Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
