Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
