Powerful gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
