Intense gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
