Intense winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
