Intense gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, though officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been halted as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
