Powerful gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
