Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
