Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Opunake, New Zealand, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized by mild coastal temperatures, residents and visitors alike are exposed to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. During peak hours, such as from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the UV Index can reach a moderate level of 3, indicating a potential risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin and enjoy the sun safely in beautiful Opunake.
The UV Index throughout the day tells an intriguing story of sun exposure. Beginning at 7:00 AM, the index stands at a minimal 0, indicating a lower risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses to 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, it slightly increases to 1, suggesting that while the sun is on the rise, caution is still not paramount. By 10:00 AM, the index climbs to 2, hinting at moderate sun intensity, which remains consistent until 11:00 AM. The peak index of 3 is reached at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, marking the sun's strength at its highest, where protective measures are advised. Following this zenith, a gradual decline begins; the index dips back to 2 at 2:00 PM and slides further down to 1 by mid-afternoon, finally wrapping up the day as it returns to 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during midday hours when UV exposure is most intense.
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 | 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, 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 |
Opunake | 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 |