Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
