Severe gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
