Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
