Intense gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
