Powerful gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, although authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
