Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, while officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
