Intense gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
