Powerful winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
