Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
