Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to call off over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
