Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
