Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
