Severe gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, while authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
