Powerful gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
