Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
