Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
