Severe gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
