Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
