Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
