Intense winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
