Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
