Intense gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
