Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Riwaka, New Zealand, is crucial for everyone, as it helps raise awareness about potential sun exposure and its implications for skin health. With a climate characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, Riwaka still boasts UV levels that can pave the way for sunburn and long-term skin damage if not monitored. Although the UV Index here typically peaks at a moderate level of 2 during midday hours, it's essential to stay informed to protect your skin effectively. So, whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the sun, knowing the UV levels can make a significant difference in your sun safety routine.
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, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest risk occurring in the winter and late fall months of January, February, November, and December, where it reaches a critical level of 13, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. As spring approaches, March and October see a drop to a very high level of 9, while April and September present a high risk with indices of 7 and 6, respectively, allowing for longer burn times of 25 minutes. May and August show moderate levels at 4, offering burn times of 30 minutes, whereas the summer months of June and July maintain a low risk at 2, with extended burn times of 45 minutes. It is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months from January to February and November to December, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
| Riwaka | 13 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 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 |