Intense winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, though officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
