Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
