Powerful winds attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
