Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
