Powerful gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
