Powerful winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, while officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
