Intense gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to halt over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, though officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
