Intense gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
