Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
