The Maori are an indigenous people native to New Zealand and the Polynesian Islands. This population is known for its rich tradition. In the cultural heritage of these ancient people is the art of creating unique tattoos. As the Maori say, no one can take away a man’s face (his tattoo). Maori tattoos are unique. They are made up of symbolic signs that in a way become the identity card of the wearer. Maori tattoos can be symbols of some thought or motto of life, give meaning to a person’s character or symbolize some kind of protection.
Maori tattoos are not just body decoration
When you look at some of the Maori tattoos you will notice curved lines, various geometric shapes and spirals that together form an interesting and intricate pattern. Tattoos on the wearer can reveal a lot about his character, as well as his social status, military position and so on. In other words, tattoos are the identity card of the wearer. The inconsistency of the tattoo with the real status can lead to the death of the owner, so strict are the Maori rules for tattoos. Among the Maori, many famous warriors and hunters of the Polynesian peoples wore tattoos. These prominent people wore tattoos on their face, but also on their thighs, buttocks and back. Women of these ancient peoples wore tattoos only on the chin, on the lips and sometimes but very rarely on the back, thighs and forehead.
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Maori tattoos were made by these ancient peoples with an extremely painful technique. They used a type of needle made of albatross bone. With these needles and a kind of chisel they made the tattoos so that they did not pierce the flesh, so the tattoo was lifted.
Maori tattoos are also popular in Europe today
Sometime in the mid-nineteenth century, sailors brought Maori traditions to Europe. In this way this ancient art gradually spread throughout the world. Today, Maori tattoos are popular with both men and women. Maori tattoos are fascinating intricate patterns that, through their impressive detail, signify different meanings. Among the most ponytail tattoos are Ununahi, Ahu Ahu Mataroa, Pakati and Taraterae.
Journalist makes history by becoming first person with maori face tattoo to present news
An interesting story about a journalist from New Zealand named Oriini Kaipara who in 2019 appeared in the breaking news as a presenter. But that’s no surprise, until you notice her Maori tattoo on her face. This tattoo is called Tā moko and Kaipara has it on her chin. Kaipara decided to get this tattoo after a DNA test revealed that it originated from the ancient Maori people, so she wanted to make a tattoo to mark it. Kaipara tattoo reflects its history, which as we said in the past, this tattoo also gave a description of a person’s social rank, skill, knowledge, eligibility for marriage, etc. With this gesture, Kaipara explains that he wants to point out to future generations not to forget their history and not to forget where they come from. She wants to show the young generations to stand up for their customs and traditions and not be ashamed of what they are.
