Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
