Powerful gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
