Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
