Powerful winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
