Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, while officials state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
