Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
