Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
