Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
