Intense gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
