Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
