Severe winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
