Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, while officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
