Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
