Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
