Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
