Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
