Intense gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
