Intense gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
