Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
