Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Tolaga Bay, New Zealand, where the unique Cfb climate can lead to varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day. Being aware of the UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV levels reaching 4 around midday, it's essential to take precautions, especially during the warmer months, to safeguard against harmful UV radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning scenery of Tolaga Bay while protecting your skin from potential damage.
The UV Index for the day reveals a gradual increase in solar intensity as the sun climbs higher. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index nudges to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 4 between 11:00 and 13:00, indicating a notable amount of UV exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the value slightly tapers off to 3 at 14:00 and dwindles down to 2 by 15:00. The evening brings a steep decline, with the index dropping to 1 at 16:00 and then to 0 after 18:00. Stay protected during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | 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, the UV Index experiences significant variations, with the highest risk months being January, February, and November, where the index soars to 14, 13, and 11 respectively, all categorized as extreme with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The spring months see a gradual decline, with March at 10 (very high) and April dropping to 7 (high), before transitioning into moderate levels in May and June with indices of 4 and 3. Moving into the fall, September and October reflect a rise again in risk, reaching levels of 6 and 9 (high and very high) that demand caution. As such, it’s crucial for both residents and visitors to stay vigilant, particularly during the extreme and very high months. Sunscreen application, protective clothing, and limited sun exposure are highly recommended, especially during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Tolaga Bay | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 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 |