Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
