Severe winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though officials report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
