Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
