Powerful gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, 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 urban area have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
