Powerful winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
