Intense winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, while officials state that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
