Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Hanmer Springs, New Zealand, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Awareness of UV levels is key to preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, especially during the sunniest hours. With a Cfb climate, Hanmer Springs experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day. For instance, peak levels can reach a moderate index of 4 around midday, indicating a heightened risk of harm to unprotected skin. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful sunlit days while protecting your skin from potential damage.
The UV Index for the day unfolds a fascinating journey through the hours, starting with a maximum of 0 at 7:00 AM, indicating a safe start to the morning. As the sun ascends, the index gradually climbs to 1 by 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, hinting at a gentle rise in UV exposure. By 10:00 AM, the UV Index reaches 2, marking the beginning of a moderate risk period. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a high of 4, prompting sun safety measures to avoid overexposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index recedes slightly, stabilizing at 3 from 11:00 AM to 14:00 PM, before tapering off to 1 by 16:00 PM, and finally returning to 0 by the evening. This daily UV cycle highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is strongest.
| 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 | 3 | 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 |
The UV Index changes significantly throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring in the winter and early spring months. January and February are notably high-risk months, featuring extreme UV indices of 14 and 16, respectively, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The risk diminishes slightly in March at a UV index of 9 (very high, burn time 15 min) and continues to decline through April and May. By June and July, UV exposure is classified as low to moderate (2 to 3), allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 to 45 minutes. However, as summer transitions to fall, the UV index climbs again, peaking in October at 10 (very high) and remaining relatively high into November with an 11. To safely enjoy outdoor activities, residents and visitors should take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, especially during high-risk months, to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Hanmer Springs | 14 | 16 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 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 |