Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
