Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Port Chalmers, New Zealand, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help prevent sunburn and minimize long-term skin damage, especially in a coastal climate characterized by mild summers and cooler winters. With UV exposure peaking in the midday hours with indices reaching 2, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take appropriate precautions when enjoying the outdoors, ensuring a safe and healthy experience in this beautiful harbor town.
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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risks for skin damage from sun exposure. The highest risk months are January, February, November, and December, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (12-13) with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following these months, March and October present very high risks with an index of 9 and 8 respectively, where individuals can burn in just 15 minutes. As the year progresses into the warmer months of April and May, the risk reduces to moderate levels (UV Index 5-3) with longer burn times of 30 minutes. By June and July, the index drops to low levels of 2, allowing for about 45 minutes of safe exposure. However, as summer fades into August and September, moderate levels return, advising caution once again. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to stay informed and protect their skin, particularly during the high-risk months, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Chalmers | 13 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 |
| 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 |
| 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 |