Severe gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
