Intense gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
