Intense gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
