Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Campbells Bay, New Zealand. With its temperate maritime climate (Cfb), this beautiful coastal area can present unique challenges when it comes to sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during the peak hours when the index typically reaches a maximum of 3 around midday. While the mornings start with minimal UV radiation, levels rise significantly by 11 AM, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Being informed about the UV Index not only aids in enjoying the outdoors safely but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health for everyone soaking up the sun on the stunning beaches of Campbells Bay.
The UV Index throughout the day offers a clear insight into solar intensity, peaking at 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, signaling moderate sun exposure. The day begins with 0 UV at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 1 by 8:00 AM and maintaining a low level until 10:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index reaches 2 by mid-morning and then stabilizes at 3 during the lunch hours, suggesting the need for sun protection. By mid-afternoon, numbers dip back to 2 and diminish further to 1 as the evening approaches. Finally, the UV Index returns to 0 after 6:00 PM, marking a transition into a safer time to enjoy the outdoors without risk of sunburn.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk months being January, February, November, and December, where the index reaches extreme levels of 14 and burn times are as short as 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the risk decreases to high in March (10) and April (7), and then tapers off to moderate levels in the summer months (June to August) with values ranging from 3 to 5. The cycle then shifts back to high in September and returns to very high in October (10). Residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions during the extreme and very high months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially if spending extended periods outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christchurch UVI | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
| Wellington UVI | 13 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 13 |
| Hamilton UVI | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |
| Campbells Bay | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |
| Manukau City UVI | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |
| Auckland UVI | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |