Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
