Intense winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, while officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
