UV Index in Masterton, New Zealand

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Masterton, New Zealand, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels allows residents and visitors to take proactive steps against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Cfb climate characterized by moderate temperatures and varying cloud cover, Masterton can still present risks for UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours. Being informed about the daily UV Index not only ensures a safer outdoor experience but also promotes healthier skin habits in our beautiful region.

Hourly UV Index in Masterton

During the early hours, the UV Index remains low, starting at a comfortable 0 at 07:00. As the sun rises, it gradually climbs to 2 by late morning, peaking at 2 from 10:00 through 14:00. This indicates a moderate level of UV radiation, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities while still taking precautions. As afternoon transitions into evening, the index dips back down to 1 between 15:00 and 17:00, finally returning to 0 after 18:00. Overall, it's a day where staying mindful of sun exposure is essential during peak hours!

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	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Masterton

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Masterton, New Zealand

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Masterton. 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 Masterton, 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 Masterton UV Index with Other New Zealand Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Masterton 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.

Masterton'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
Masterton	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