Intense winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
