Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
