Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
