Powerful gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
