Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
