Intense gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
