Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
