Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
