Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
