Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
