Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
