## Daylight Saving: Embracing Shorter Days
Daylight saving is coming to an end, offering a bittersweet respite from the extended daylight hours. As we prepare to turn our clocks back, let’s explore how this seasonal adjustment affects the amount of daylight we experience.
The Earth’s Tilt and Its Impact
The Earth’s tilt of approximately 23 degrees plays a crucial role in determining daylight hours. During summer, the North Pole is tilted towards the sun, resulting in longer days in the Northern Hemisphere. Conversely, the South Pole tilts away during winter, leading to shorter daylight hours.
Seasonal Shifts in Daylight
In New Zealand, the summer solstice occurs on December 21st, marking the day with the longest daylight hours. This year, the average daylight duration at this time will be five hours and four minutes longer compared to the winter solstice on June 21st, where daylight hours are at their shortest.
Regional Variations
The amount of daylight variation also varies across the country. For instance, the southernmost point of New Zealand, Rakiura/Stewart Island, experiences an impressive seven hours and 23 minutes more daylight during the summer solstice than the winter solstice.
Global Prevalence
While adjusting clocks for daylight saving is a common practice, it’s not universally adopted. According to Pew Research, only one-third of countries worldwide implement daylight saving.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Daylight saving has several advantages. It can reduce energy consumption by maximizing natural light, promote outdoor activities, and improve road safety by reducing traffic accidents during dusk. However, some potential disadvantages include disruption to sleep patterns, increased risk of cardiovascular issues, and potential health effects for shift workers.
Embrace the Changing Seasons
As we approach the shorter days of winter, we must remember that these seasonal changes are an integral part of our planet’s natural rhythm. Embrace the cozy evenings and take advantage of the extra opportunities for sleep and relaxation that daylight saving offers.
Divya 
Mehek