Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to cancel over 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
