Intense gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
