Intense gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to 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 announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
