Powerful winds attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
