Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
