Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
