UV Index in Hamilton, New Zealand

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Hamilton, New Zealand, as it directly impacts skin health and aids in sunburn prevention. With Hamilton's temperate climate, where UV levels can rise significantly during the day, it's essential to be aware of how sun exposure can affect you. For instance, while the UV Index peaks at 4 around midday, even moderate levels can pose risks, especially for fair-skinned individuals. Staying informed about these levels enables you to take precautions and protect your skin, ensuring a safer and healthier outdoor experience in this beautiful region.

Hourly UV Index in Hamilton

The UV Index for the day reveals a gradual increase in solar intensity as the sun climbs higher. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index nudges to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 4 between 11:00 and 13:00, indicating a notable amount of UV exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the value slightly tapers off to 3 at 14:00 and dwindles down to 2 by 15:00. The evening brings a steep decline, with the index dropping to 1 at 16:00 and then to 0 after 18:00. Stay protected during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	3	moderate	30 min
11:00	4	moderate	30 min
12:00	4	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Hamilton

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk months being January, February, November, and December, where the index reaches extreme levels of 14 and burn times are as short as 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the risk decreases to high in March (10) and April (7), and then tapers off to moderate levels in the summer months (June to August) with values ranging from 3 to 5. The cycle then shifts back to high in September and returns to very high in October (10). Residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions during the extreme and very high months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially if spending extended periods outdoors.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Hamilton, New Zealand

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Hamilton. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Hamilton, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Hamilton UV Index with Other New Zealand Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Hamilton compares to other major locations across New Zealand. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Hamilton's solar exposure compared to other cities in New Zealand. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Hamilton	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