Severe gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
