Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
