Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However 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, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.