Intense winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
