Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
