Lingering ozone hole threat to NZ

Scientists predict a late breakup of the ozone hole over Antarctica, which means New Zealanders will face increased skin cancer risks this summer.

The hole had been relatively stable and circular, suggesting it would probably last into November or December, scientist Stephen Wood said.

The "hole" allows more harmful ultraviolet radiation to penetrate the atmosphere and hastens the onset of sunburn, and the accompanying risk of skin cancer in later life.

By the weekend, the ozone hole had an area of more than 20 million sq km, 5 million sq km larger than last year's hole at the same date.

- NZPA