Powerful gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
