Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
