Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
