Powerful gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about forest fires.
