Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather 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, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
