Severe winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to halt over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
