Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Foxton Beach, New Zealand. With its temperate Cfb climate, the region experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, making awareness essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. During peak hours, typically around midday, the UV Index can reach levels that pose significant risks, especially for those enjoying outdoor activities under the sun. By staying informed about UV exposure, you can better protect yourself and loved ones from harmful effects, ensuring memorable and safe moments amidst the stunning coastal landscape.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a maximum of 0 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal exposure risk. As the day progresses, the UV levels subtly rise, reaching 1 by 8:00 and 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index reaches 2, continuing at this moderate level through 11:00 AM. The peak sunshine hours arrive at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits 3, marking a time to take extra precautions. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels gently dip back to 2 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, before declining to 1 between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. The UV exposure decreases significantly as evening approaches, dropping back to 0 by 6:00 PM and remaining at that safe level until sunset. Remember to stay protected during the peak hours!
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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
13:00 | 2 | low | 45 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, UV Index readings fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring during the extreme exposure categories in January, February, November, and December, when the UV Index reaches 13 and the burn time is as little as 10 minutes. The transition months of March and October indicate very high exposure levels, necessitating careful sun protection with burn times of just 15 minutes. As we move into the warmer months, April and September present high exposure with burn times of 25 minutes. By May, June, and July, the UV Index decreases to moderate levels, offering slightly longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during high-risk months, ensuring they apply sunscreen regularly and seek shade when necessary, particularly during peak sunlight 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 |
Foxton Beach | 13 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 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 |