Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
