Intense gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
