Severe winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path 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 popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
