Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Wairoa, New Zealand, as it serves as a vital indicator of the sun's intensity and its potential impact on skin health. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage, making it an essential component of sun safety. With Wairoa's Cfb climate, characterized by mild temperatures and moderate UV exposure, it's important to recognize the variations throughout the day. During the peak hours, especially around noon, the UV Index can reach levels of 3, indicating a moderate risk; thus, proper sun protection measures should be taken to safeguard your skin.
The UV Index data reveals a gentle rise in sun exposure as the day unfolds. Starting from a calm 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to peak at 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, signaling the most intense sun exposure during midday. As the clock ticks past 2:00 PM, the index gently declines, reaching a soothing 1 by late afternoon, before tapering off completely to 0 by 6:00 PM. For sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, the midday hours demand precaution, while the early morning and late evening provide enjoyable, low-UVI moments.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 1 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking in the winter months. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January, February, and November, all categorized as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. As spring approaches, March presents a very high UV Index of 10, with a burn time of 15 minutes. In contrast, the summer months of June and July reach a moderate index of 3, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months, wearing appropriate sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, to avoid harmful effects from UV radiation. As the UV Index fluctuates, staying informed can help ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
| Wairoa | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 |
| 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 |