Intense gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
