Your guide to Sun screen in NZ

Your guide to Sun screen in NZ
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Kiwi Summer Sessions.


Scorching NZ summers and epic swells mean long days in the water. While we all love chasing waves, that harsh Kiwi sun does not play nice.
To keep your skin safe while you carve, you need the right protection. Here is what to look for on the label before you hit the beach:
   SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
  • Measures protection against UVB rays.
  • UVB rays cause nasty sunburns.
  • Higher numbers mean stronger defense.
  • ☀️ Broad-Spectrum Protection
  • Shielding against one ray isn't enough.
  • Covers both UVA and UVB rays.
  • UVA causes long-term skin damage.
  • Ensure your bottle explicitly states "Broad-Spectrum".
  Water Resistance
  • Crucial for surfers and swimmers.
  • Formulated not to wash off instantly.
  • Tested for specific time limits.
  • Look for 2 to 4 hours of resistance.
  • Reapply immediately after towel drying.
  •  Reef-Safe Ingredients

  • Protects our fragile marine ecosystems.
  • Standard sunscreens wash into the ocean.
  • Chemical blocks damage coral and sea life.
  • Avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate on labels.
  • Choose mineral-based zinc or titanium dioxide.

What is the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen?

Chemical and physical (mineral) sunscreens differ primarily in their active ingredients and how they handle UV rays: chemical formulas absorb rays and turn them into heat, while physical formulas sit on the skin to block and reflect them

Chemical Sunscreen

Ingredients: Uses carbon-based compounds like avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate. 

How it works: Sinks into the skin, absorbs UV rays, and releases them as heat. 

Pros: Lightweight, blends invisibly with no white cast, and often water-resistant.

Cons: Needs 15 to 30 minutes to work after application and can irritate sensitive skin

Physical (Mineral)

Sunscreen Ingredients: Uses natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

How it works: Sits on top of the skin to reflect and scatter UV rays.

Pros: Works immediately upon application and is very gentle on sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Cons: Can feel heavier and may leave a white or grey cast on darker skin tones





One of our fav's for surfing Sol Goods Performance Mineral Sunscreen SPF40 This zinc based sunscreen has been tried & tested by the New Wave crew

+ Certified, proven SPF 40 UVA + UVB broad spectrum protection+ Thicker cream to stay put for those long sessions+ High performing physical mineral shield for sports and adventures+ 2 hours water resistant+ Off-white to blend clear into skin+ Kid safe recommended from age 6 months ++ Reef friendly ingredients AND packaging

          Check out our range of Sun Products below

Posted: Friday 8 January 2027