Intense winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
