Powerful winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
