Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Whitianga, New Zealand, where the combination of its temperate climate and sunny days can lead to varying levels of UV exposure. Monitoring UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, making it essential to stay informed. With peak UV exposure typically occurring around midday, when the index reaches levels of 3, it’s important to take protective measures during these hours. As you enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities that Whitianga offers, keep an eye on the UV Index to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic range of sunlight intensity, starting from a maximum of 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Early risers will encounter minimal exposure at 07:00 with a value of 0 before it gradually rises to 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. By 10:00, the index reaches 2, indicating a moderate level of UV radiation, and peaks at 3 during the late morning to early afternoon. As the sun begins its descent, the index declines, dropping back to 2 by 14:00 before tapering off to 1 from 15:00 until 17:00, and finally returning to 0 by 18:00. Overall, this UVI data suggests a cautious approach to sun exposure during peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, when sunscreen and protective clothing are advisable.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months primarily occurring from January to March and in November and December. Specifically, January and February present an extreme category (UV Index 14), where the burn time is just 10 minutes. March sees a drop to a very high level (UV Index 10), increasing burn time to 15 minutes. As spring progresses into summer, the index decreases to moderate levels from June to August (UV Index 3 to 5), with burn times extending to 30 minutes. However, caution should be exercised again in September and October as the index climbs back to high and very high levels (UV Index 7 and 10, respectively) with burn times of 25 and 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during peak months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure during vulnerable hours, especially in the high-risk months of January, February, November, and December.
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 |
| 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 |
| Whitianga | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |