Severe gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
