Severe winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, though officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
