Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.