Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
