Powerful gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off over 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
