Severe gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
