Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Rangiora, New Zealand, is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate characterized as Cfb, Rangiora experiences moderate UV exposure that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions aren't taken. Monitoring UV levels helps residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about sun protection—especially during the peak midday hours when indexes can reach 2. By staying informed, you can enjoy Rangiora's beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin health.
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 | 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 levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from January to March and then again in November and December. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 13, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes, necessitating precautionary measures. As spring approaches, March brings a very high rating of 9, with a burn time of 15 minutes, while April and early fall months like September see a decrease to high levels with a UV Index of 6 (burn time 25 minutes). In the summer months of June and July, the index drops to low at 2, allowing for up to 45 minutes of exposure without significant risk. However, as August rolls in, it climbs back to moderate, reaching 4. Thus, it is imperative for visitors and residents to remain vigilant during the extreme and very high months, employing sun safety strategies like using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever necessary, particularly in the high-risk periods.
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 |
| Rangiora | 13 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 |
| 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 |