Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, although agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
