Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
