Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
