Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
