UV Index in Waitakere, New Zealand

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Waitakere, New Zealand, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. This region's Cfb climate can bring about varying UV levels throughout the day, making it essential to stay informed. With peak UV readings reaching 3 between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the risk of sunburn increases significantly during these hours. By being aware of the UV Index, residents and visitors can better plan their outdoor activities, ensuring they take necessary precautions against harmful UV exposure and promote healthier skin in the long run. Stay safe in the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Waitakere

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity, peaking mid-afternoon. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index rises to 1 by 08:00 and remains moderate at 1 for the following hour. As the sun ascends, the intensity reaches 2 by 10:00, climbing further to 3 at 11:00, sustaining this level until 14:00. After this peak, a gentle decline begins, with the index dropping to 2 at 15:00, and gradually easing back to 1 by 17:00, before retreating to 0 by 18:00. For anyone spending time outdoors, the late morning to early afternoon presents the highest UV exposure; thus, caution and sun protection are highly advisable during these hours.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:002low45 min
10:003moderate30 min
11:004moderate30 min
12:005moderate30 min
13:005moderate30 min
14:004moderate30 min
15:002low45 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Waitakere

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Waitakere, New Zealand

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Waitakere. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141410743357101113
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Waitakere, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Waitakere UV Index with Other New Zealand Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Waitakere compares to other major locations across New Zealand. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Waitakere's solar exposure compared to other cities in New Zealand. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Christchurch UVI1312963223591012
Wellington UVI1313974224691013
Hamilton UVI141410743357101113
Waitakere141410743357101113
Manukau City UVI141410743357101113
Auckland UVI141410743357101113