Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
