Powerful gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
