Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts 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 such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
