Wellington, New Zealand UV Index in May
The average UV index in Wellington, New Zealand in May is about 6.6 (High), peaking near 12 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 14 minutes without sunscreen. SPF 30–50 sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are essential. Seek shade between 11am and 3pm.
What is the UV index in Wellington, New Zealand in May?
Average UV
6.6
High
Midday Peak
12
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
14 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Wellington, New Zealand in May?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 9 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 2 | 14 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 23 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 36 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 55 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 82 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Wellington, New Zealand's latitude and typical May 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.
Wellington, New Zealand UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Wellington, New Zealand?
Highest: January (about 9.6). Lowest: June (about 6).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.6 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| February | 9.2 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| March | 8.6 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| April | 7.6 | 12 | High | 12 min |
| May | 6.6 | 12 | High | 14 min |
| June | 6 | 12 | High | 15 min |
| July | 6.2 | 12 | High | 15 min |
| August | 7.1 | 12 | High | 13 min |
| September | 8.2 | 12 | Very High | 11 min |
| October | 9 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| November | 9.5 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| December | 9.6 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
Common questions about UV in Wellington, New Zealand in May
Do you need sunscreen in Wellington, New Zealand in May?
Yes. A UV index of 6.6 is High, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Wellington, New Zealand in May?
Yes, UV of 6.6 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 14 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Wellington, New Zealand?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 12 in May. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is May a good month to visit Wellington, New Zealand for the sun?
May averages UV 6.6, compared with a yearly high of 9.6 in January and a low of 6 in June. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 82 minutes at this level.