Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
