Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
