Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
