Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
