Intense winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
