Severe winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and led officials to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
