Severe gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, while authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the city have been halted because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
