Severe winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
