Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
