Intense gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
