Catherine Stewart Tauranga City Councillor

At a recent council community meeting, a presentation was made to councillors by Dr Franz Strydom regarding a real-time UV index public display.

The Bay of Plenty is one of the sunniest places in New Zealand. The UV Index is a measure of the intensity of UV radiation. The larger the number, the more intense the UV. In New Zealand, its maximum summer value is generally about 12, but it can exceed this.

Dr Strydom proposes that a sign to be erected that will provide visible feedback to all those starting out for a run, walk or stroll up all around Mauao. The sign would also be visible from the beach for Beach users and surfers. The current UV index will also be available online by a RSS feed which can be incorporated into websites together with hourly radio broadcasts of the current UV index.

Sounds like a good idea, given the high incidence of skin cancer in New Zealand.