Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
