Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
