Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bethlehem, New Zealand is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. With the region's Cfb climate, which enjoys mild temperatures and ample sunshine, awareness of UV levels becomes essential in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. During daylight hours, particularly between midday and early afternoon, UV levels can reach as high as 3, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones while enjoying the beautiful outdoors in Bethlehem!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a gradual rise and fall in sunlight intensity. Starting at a maximum of 0 at 07:00, the index remains low as the morning progresses, only reaching 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. As we approach midday, the sun's strength peaks with a UVI of 3 at 12:00 and 13:00, marking the most intense hours for sun exposure. After this brief climax, the index dips back down, winding down to 2 at 14:00, and then steadily declines to 1 by 15:00 before returning to 0 by 17:00, and remaining there through the evening. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the peak hours around noon to early afternoon when the UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the winter months of January and February with an extreme index of 14, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. Following that, March sees a drop to a very high index of 10, with a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. The UV exposure then decreases gradually into the spring and summer, reaching a moderate index of 4-5 by May through August, where the burn time stabilizes around 30 minutes. Notably, September sees a return to high levels (UV Index 7), while October peaks again at 9 under very high exposure. As the year closes, November and December bring extreme levels again, registering 11 and 13 respectively, with burn times back down to 10 minutes. Thus, visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution during the high-risk months of January, February, and November by employing sun protection measures, and to remain vigilant during the transitional months to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Bethlehem | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 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 |