Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
