Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
