Intense gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.