Severe gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, although agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
