Severe gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
