Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
