Why UPF 50+ Swimwear Is Best for Kids in NZ

Summer in New Zealand means beach days, paddling pools and long afternoons outside. It also means some of the strongest UV in the world.

Sunscreen, hats and shade all matter. But the easiest bit of sun protection to get right is what your little one is wearing in the water. That's where UPF swimwear comes in.

Here's what UPF actually means, and why UPF 50+ kids' swimwear is our go-to for babies, toddlers and big kids this summer.

Why UPF swimwear is best

First up, what is UPF?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It measures how much UV gets through a fabric to the skin underneath. UPF 50+ is the top rating, and it means the fabric blocks at least 98% of UV rays. In New Zealand, look for swimwear tested to the AS/NZS 4399 standard.

It doesn't wash off

Sunscreen needs reapplying after swimming, towelling off and every couple of hours. UPF fabric keeps working the whole time they're in the water. No chasing a wet toddler around the beach with a bottle of sunscreen.

It covers the spots that burn first

Shoulders, backs and the backs of necks catch the sun first when kids are bent over in the sand. A rashie or long-sleeve swimsuit keeps those areas covered, so sunscreen only needs to go on the bits left showing.

Perfect for babies

For babies under six months, the advice is to keep them out of direct sun and protect them with shade and clothing rather than relying on sunscreen. A long-sleeve UPF baby swimsuit and a sunhat make that so much easier when you're out and about.

Better than a T-shirt

Throwing a cotton T-shirt over togs is a common trick, but cotton gets heavy, stretches and lets through more UV once it's wet. UPF swimwear is made for the water, so it stays light, dries fast and keeps its protection.

Made for the NZ summer

Our UV is strong from September through to April, especially between 10am and 4pm. That's prime swimming time. UPF swimwear means you've got their protection sorted before you even leave the house.

What to look for

• UPF 50+ on the label. The highest rating, ideally tested to AS/NZS 4399.
• More coverage, more protection. UPF only protects the skin it covers, so long sleeves and higher necklines go further.
• A good fit. Snug enough not to sag when wet, with room to move. Overstretched fabric can let more UV through.
• Easy on, easy off. Zips and wide openings make nappy changes and toilet trips much simpler.
• Chlorine-resistant fabric. Holds its shape, colour and protection for longer.
• The rest of the kit. A wide-brim UPF sunhat, sunscreen for exposed skin, and shade during the middle of the day.

Kids' swim brands we love

• Seafolly. The iconic Aussie swim label, with kids' swimwear in bright prints and quality fabrics.
• Minihaha. Sweet, feminine kids' swimwear with soft colours and pretty details.
• Milky. Fun, colourful kids' swimwear and rash vests in playful prints.
• Nestling. Sun-smart baby and kids' swimwear in gorgeous prints, a favourite for the beach and the pool.
• Purebaby. Soft, simple baby swimwear in classic Purebaby style, perfect for first swims.
• Huxbaby. Playful prints and fashion-led swimwear, including pieces from their Beach Club collection.
• Crywolf. Practical, hard-wearing kids' swimwear and rash vests made for real NZ summers.

All of these brands are available at Parnell Baby Boutique in Remuera and online, so you can shop kids' swimwear in Auckland or have it delivered NZ-wide.

Get them summer-ready

We've got a few gorgeous swim finds for newborns right up to age eight, from UPF rash vests and baby swimsuits to the sweetest printed togs. Not sure on sizing? Pop in and chat to the team. We're always happy to help you find the right fit.

Shop swimwear in-store at 373 Remuera Road, Remuera, or online at parnellbabyboutique.co.nz. And if you're not a PBB Rewards member yet, ask us about joining when you shop.