Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Fairlie, New Zealand, as it provides vital information about the sun's intensity and potential risks to skin health. With levels peaking at 2 during midday hours, even on seemingly mild days, being aware of UV exposure can help in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin wellness. Fairlie's Cfb climate means moderate temperatures but can still present risks, making it essential to monitor UV levels regularly and take appropriate precautions. Stay informed and protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoor activities that Fairlie has to offer!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual ascent as the sun climbs high in the sky. Starting at a maximum of 0 at 07:00, the index slowly advances to 1 from 08:00 to 10:00. By 11:00, it reaches 2, peaking at this level from 12:00 to 14:00, indicating a moderate risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the UV intensity begins to taper off, descending to 1 by 15:00 and then returning to 0 by 18:00. This hourly fluctuation emphasizes the importance of being sun-smart during those midday hours when the UV Index is at its peak.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring in the winter months of January (13) and February (12), both classified as extreme, requiring minimal exposure times of just 10 minutes to avoid skin damage. As spring approaches, the UV Index decreases slightly in March (9) and further drops to 6 in April, but remains high enough to warrant caution. May sees a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. The UV Index then lowers to 2 during the summer months of June and July, categorized as low, making it relatively safer for outdoor activities. However, moderate levels return in August (4) and September (5), emphasizing the need for sun protection. Autumn brings back higher risks in October (9) and November (11), classified back into the very high and extreme categories with short burn times of 15 and 10 minutes, respectively. Finally, December mirrors January and February with an extreme UV Index of 12. It is crucial for visitors and residents to remain vigilant and protect their skin during the high-risk months of January, February, October, and November, and to implement sun safety measures throughout the year, especially in the transition months of March and April.
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 |
| Fairlie | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 11 | 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 |