Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Orewa, New Zealand, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With sunburn risks escalating during certain hours, being informed about UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take preventive measures. The Cfb climate of Orewa offers delightful outdoor experiences, but it also brings with it particular exposure risks, especially during peak hours like midday when the UV Index can reach 3. By staying aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index data reveals a gentle rise in sun exposure as the day unfolds. Starting from a calm 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to peak at 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, signaling the most intense sun exposure during midday. As the clock ticks past 2:00 PM, the index gently declines, reaching a soothing 1 by late afternoon, before tapering off completely to 0 by 6:00 PM. For sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, the midday hours demand precaution, while the early morning and late evening provide enjoyable, low-UVI moments.
| 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 | 1 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months occurring predominantly in the winter and early spring. January and February show extreme UV levels (Index 14), with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition to March, the UV Index drops slightly to 10 (very high), necessitating a burn time of 15 minutes. The spring months of April and September have high Index levels (7), offering moderate burn times of 25 minutes. In contrast, the summer months June and July see a reduction in UV risk, with moderate Index levels (3), allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. Notably, as winter approaches, November and December return to extreme levels (12 and 13, respectively) with short burn times of 10 minutes. For both visitors and residents, it is crucial to stay aware of these UV Index variations and take appropriate sun safety precautions, particularly during the extreme months, to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
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 |
| 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 |
| Orewa | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 |