Powerful gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
