Intense gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 flights, based on 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 rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
