High sunburn rates highlight need for improved skin cancer prevention in NZ

A 2025 national survey found 64% of New Zealand adults were sunburnt last summer, especially young women, while public support for SunSmart programs remains strong, with over 85% backing increased prevention efforts and shaded public spaces.

A 2025 nationwide survey of more than 2,000 adults has provided valuable insights into New Zealanders’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours around sun exposure and sun protection.

The findings are concerning.

• 64% of adults reported being sunburnt during the summer, and 26% experienced severe sunburn.
• Sunburn rates are highest among 18–24-year-olds, with more than half of young women reporting severe sunburn.
• 50% of the population report liking to get a suntan.
• While most people agree that regularly protecting yourself from the sun can prevent skin cancer, only 38% regularly protect all exposed skin, and 40% of the population report not owning a sun protective hat.
• Myths about sunscreen remain common.
• Encouragingly, more than 85% of New Zealanders support increased government investment in SunSmart programmes and shade in public spaces.

Source:

McNoe B, Gray A, Iosua E. 2025. Sun exposure, protection, and skin cancer prevention knowledge, attitudes and behaviours in Aotearoa New Zealand: 2025 national survey findings. Cancer Society Research Collaboration (Te Rōpū Rangahau ō Te Kāhui Matepukupuku).