Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
