Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
