Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
