Intense gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
