Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving 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 crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
