The Cancer Society is warning that it is not just fair-skinned people who should protect themselves from the sun.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research is predicting above-average temperatures in most parts of the country this summer.
NIWA says temperatures could regularly hit the high 20s and early 30s, though drought is unlikely.
Cancer Society health promotion adviser Judith Galtry says a common misconception is that only fair-skinned people need to cover up in the sun.
However she says Maori, Pacific Islanders and other people with darker skin report getting sunburned and should protect themselves.
