Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward 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 because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
