Intense gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
