Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
