Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
