Powerful gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
