Powerful gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, although authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
