Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
