Powerful gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
