Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
