Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Waitati, New Zealand, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. With a temperate Cfb climate, locals should be particularly mindful of UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the index can rise to 2. Knowing when the sun's rays are strongest not only helps safeguard your skin but also enhances your outdoor enjoyment in this beautiful coastal area. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index throughout the day starts off quite low, with a maximum of 0 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, making it a safe time to enjoy morning activities without concern. As the day progresses, the index gradually climbs, peaking at 2 during the hours of 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. This indicates a moderate level of ultraviolet radiation, suggesting that while it's a good time for outdoor fun, wearing sunscreen and protective clothing is advisable. After 1:00 PM, the UV Index dips back down, returning to 1 by 2:00 PM and further declining to 0 by the early evening. Overall, it’s a day that calls for a bit of sun-smart awareness, especially around midday!
| 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 13:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 14:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 0 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waitati | 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 |