Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
