Christchurch, New Zealand UV Index in December
The average UV index in Christchurch, New Zealand in December is about 10.1 (Very High), peaking near 12 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 9 minutes without sunscreen. SPF 50+ sunscreen, protective clothing, hat and sunglasses. Minimise midday sun exposure.
What is the UV index in Christchurch, New Zealand in December?
Average UV
10.1
Very High
Midday Peak
12
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
9 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Christchurch, New Zealand in December?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 6 min | up to 180 min |
| Type 2 | 9 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 15 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 24 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 36 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 53 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Christchurch, New Zealand's latitude and typical December sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.
Christchurch, New Zealand UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Christchurch, New Zealand?
Highest: December (about 10.1). Lowest: June (about 6).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| February | 9.6 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| March | 8.9 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| April | 7.7 | 12 | High | 12 min |
| May | 6.6 | 12 | High | 14 min |
| June | 6 | 11 | High | 15 min |
| July | 6.2 | 11.4 | High | 15 min |
| August | 7.2 | 12 | High | 13 min |
| September | 8.4 | 12 | Very High | 11 min |
| October | 9.3 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| November | 9.9 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| December | 10.1 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
Common questions about UV in Christchurch, New Zealand in December
Do you need sunscreen in Christchurch, New Zealand in December?
Yes. A UV index of 10.1 is Very High, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Christchurch, New Zealand in December?
Yes, UV of 10.1 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 9 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Christchurch, New Zealand?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 12 in December. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is December a good month to visit Christchurch, New Zealand for the sun?
December averages UV 10.1, compared with a yearly high of 10.1 in December and a low of 6 in June. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 53 minutes at this level.