Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.