Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
