Intense gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
