Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
