Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, while agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
