Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
