Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
