Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
