Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
