Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
