Powerful gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
