Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
