Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ashburton, New Zealand, where the climate is characterized by mild temperatures and variable weather patterns. Being aware of UV levels helps you take proactive steps toward sunburn prevention and long-term skin health, particularly during the sunniest hours of the day. With peak UV Index values reaching 3 around midday, it’s essential to recognize the risks associated with sun exposure in our local environment. Safeguarding your skin is not just a seasonal concern but a year-round imperative in managing potential UV-related health issues. Stay informed and protect yourself while enjoying the beautiful outdoor spaces that Ashburton has to offer!
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the winter months of January (13) and February (12), categorized as extreme with a rapid burn time of 10 minutes. The transition to spring sees a decrease, with March at 9 (very high) and April dropping to 6 (high). May marks a notable reduction to 3 (moderate) as temperatures warm up, continuing through the summer months of June and July where the index remains low at 2. As autumn approaches, the index rises again with October and November at 9 and 10 (very high), respectively, having burn times of just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise increased caution during the high-risk months of January, February, October, and November, ensuring proper sun protection measures such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to minimize skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ashburton | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
| 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 |