UV Index in Waitakere, New Zealand

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Waitakere, New Zealand, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun’s rays being more intense during certain hours, awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Waitakere's Cfb climate offers a mix of mild temperatures and occasional high UV exposure, making it essential for residents and visitors to stay informed. With peak UV readings reaching 3 around midday, knowing how to shield yourself from this invisible threat can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Waitakere

The UV Index throughout the day tells an intriguing story of sun exposure. Beginning at 7:00 AM, the index stands at a minimal 0, indicating a lower risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses to 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, it slightly increases to 1, suggesting that while the sun is on the rise, caution is still not paramount. By 10:00 AM, the index climbs to 2, hinting at moderate sun intensity, which remains consistent until 11:00 AM. The peak index of 3 is reached at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, marking the sun's strength at its highest, where protective measures are advised. Following this zenith, a gradual decline begins; the index dips back to 2 at 2:00 PM and slides further down to 1 by mid-afternoon, finally wrapping up the day as it returns to 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during midday hours when UV exposure is most intense.

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
07:000low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:001low45 min
10:002low45 min
11:002low45 min
12:003moderate30 min
13:003moderate30 min
14:002low45 min
15:001low45 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