Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
