Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
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 blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
