Powerful gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
