When is the greatest risk?

11am to 4pm from September to March is when ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are at their highest and your risk is greatest. (Note that in winter, the UV can be at extreme levels at high altitude or in snow so sun protection is essential.)

January has the highest UV radiation levels when the UV index (UVI) can get as high as 14 in Northland. This is extreme. Protection is required when the UVI is 3 or above. Too much exposure to UV radiation can lead to skin cancer.

During a New Zealand summer, you need to protect yourself at least between 11am and 4pm. Throughout a day UV radiation behaves in a predictable way. It is highest at about 1pm between September and March.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking the temperature reflects the risk from the sun. Even if it’s a bit cool, the UV radiation can still be high enough to cause skin damage.

Times when you are likely to be a the greatest risk of sunburn are those times when you have not planned to spend time in the sun eg, standing in a long queue, stopping to chat over the fence, walking further than first thought, etc.

Our advice – always have a hat, protective clothing and sunscreen with you. Slip, slop, slap and wrap.