Severe winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and compelled officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
