Powerful gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
