Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Queenstown, New Zealand is crucial for ensuring skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in this picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. With UV levels peaking around midday, being aware of the UV Index can help residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions to protect their skin from harmful exposure. Queenstown's alpine climate can lead to higher UV risks, even on cloudy days, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV levels. By checking the UV Index regularly, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index data reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity throughout the morning, starting from a safe 0 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the day progresses, the index reaches its peak of 2 during midday, specifically at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, and 14:00—a time when sun protection is advisable. After this peak, the UV levels gently decline to 1 by 15:00 and remain steady until 17:00, before dropping back to 0 in the evening hours at 18:00 and 19:00. This data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 0 | 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 values show significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest risks typically occurring from January to April and again in November to December. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 14 in January and remaining dangerously high until April. In contrast, from June to July, the UV Index drops to low levels, providing a safer environment for sun exposure. However, visitors and residents should remain cautious during March (UV Index 9) and October (UV Index 9) when the potential for harm remains elevated. For sun safety, individuals are advised to limit their sun exposure during high-risk months to minimize the risk of skin damage; applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours is crucial, particularly when the burn time is as short as 10 minutes during the extreme UV months.
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 |
| Queenstown | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 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 |