Severe gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
