Powerful gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
