Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, though officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
