Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
