Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
