Powerful gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
