Severe winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
