Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
