Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
