Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, while agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
