Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
