Powerful winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
