Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
