Intense gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
