Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
