Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
