Intense gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
