Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
