Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
