Intense winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
