Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
