Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
