Powerful winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, though officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
