Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Pegasus, New Zealand, where the Cfb climate offers a unique blend of coastal and temperate weather. Awareness of UV levels matters significantly, as it helps in preventing sunburn and promotes overall skin health—key factors for enjoying outdoor activities under the sun. While UV exposure risks here tend to peak between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, even low levels in the morning and late afternoon can add up, making it vital to stay informed and protect your skin year-round.
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 | 1 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring during the winter months. January and February are high-risk months, presenting an extreme UV index of 13 and 12, respectively, where a burn can occur in just 10 minutes. As spring arrives, the UV index declines slightly, reaching 9 in March and decreasing to 6 in April, indicating very high and high risk levels, with recommended burn times of 15 and 25 minutes. The summer months of June and July see a drop to a low of 2, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with 45 minutes of protection. However, as we transition into fall, the UV index rises again to 9 in October and 10 in November, both of which are categorized as very high, necessitating vigilant sun protection strategies. Residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, particularly during these high-risk months, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when UV index levels are elevated.
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 |
| Pegasus | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 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 |