Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
