For centuries, the Māori of Aotearoa have practiced a sophisticated and rich tattooing culture, known in the Māori language as tā moko. For both men and women, receiving tā moko has long been considered an important spiritual milestone accompanied by various rites and rituals.

Using small chisels traditionally made of albatross bone, the artist would create unique patterns all over the wearer’s skin, from face to feet. Using natural-based inks, these symbols would hold different meanings, such as spiral motifs called koru, representing the unfurling frond from a silver fern, native to New Zealand.

Historically, these tattoos conveyed social status as well as the wearer’s family history, achievements and ancestry. Tā moko kauae, women’s chin and lip tattooing, has a profound significance for Māori women and is a deeply personal experience.

Women’s tā moko kauae are considered to be a physical manifestation of their true identity and the artist merely brings something that already exists in the body and soul to the surface. The tattoo is a representation and commitment to culture and allows women to be closer to their ancestors.