Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
