Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
