Severe gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
