Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
