Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
