Powerful gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands 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.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
