Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
