Severe gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
