Intense gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, while officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
