Intense winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, although officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
