Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
