Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
