Severe winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
