Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
