Powerful gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
