Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
