Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
