Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
