Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
