Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
