UV Index in Greymouth, New Zealand

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In the picturesque town of Greymouth, New Zealand, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for ensuring skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can help residents and visitors alike protect themselves from harmful rays, especially during the sunnier parts of the day. With Greymouth's Cfb climate, characterized by mild summers and significant cloud cover, it’s easy to underestimate UV exposure. However, even at lower UV Index values, the risk of skin damage remains, making it essential to stay informed and take appropriate precautions.

Hourly UV Index in Greymouth

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Greymouth

Throughout the year, UV exposure levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring from January to February and November to December, where the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 13 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. March and October follow closely, showcasing a very high UV Index of 9 with a burn time of 15 minutes. As we transition into spring and fall, the risk decreases, peaking at a high level of 6 in April and September, allowing a more moderate burn time of 25 minutes. May and the summer months of June and July see a lower UV Index, which drops to 4 and 2 respectively, indicating a moderate and low risk, with burn times extending to 30-45 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly during high-risk months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours to mitigate health risks associated with UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Greymouth, New Zealand

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Greymouth 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.

Greymouth'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
Greymouth	13	13	9	6	4	2	2	4	6	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