Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
