Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
