Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
