Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, 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 frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
