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Sun Safety Advice
Protect your skin every day
Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
UV rays can damage your skin on cloudy days, in winter, and year-round in New Zealand — protection cannot be seasonal.
Daily sun protection tips:
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher every day — reapply every 2 hours outdoors
Wear UV-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and wraparound sunglasses
Seek shade, especially between 10am and 4pm when UV is strongest
Check the UV Index daily — when it is 3 or above, sun protection is essential
Never use tanning beds or sunlamps
Check your own skin monthly — know what is normal for you, including your nails
New Zealand's UV Index is frequently in the high to extreme range, particularly in summer and at Canterbury's latitude. Even on overcast days, UV can reach dangerous levels.