Severe gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and led agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
