Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led agencies to halt more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, while authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
