Powerful gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
