Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, while officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man 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 street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
