Powerful gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
