Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and led officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, although authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
