Powerful gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
