Intense winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, while authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
