Powerful gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
