Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
