Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
