Intense gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
