Intense gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
