Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and led authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
