Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
