Powerful winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
