Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
