Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
