Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
