Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
