Discover the history and practice of tāmoko, and find out why the lines of a moko carved in skin represent much more than a tattoo.

Discover traditional Māori tattoos and the meanings behind the markings. The centuries old tradition of tāmoko (Māori tattoo) is an important custom that is still practised today. Historically, these beautiful tattoos were a bit like a résumé, telling the wearer’s story through visual symbols.

Tā moko is the permanent marking or tattooing as customarily practised by Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. It is one of the five main Polynesian tattoo styles (the other four are Marquesan, Samoan, Tahitian and Hawaiian). [1] Tohunga-tā-moko (tattooists) were considered tapu, or inviolable and sacred. [2]

Maori Tattoo (Ta Moko) - the definite guide to Maori tattoo designs and symbols, including fish hook tattoos, patterns, styles and the meanings behind different tribal tattoos.

In New Zealand, Māori developed techniques to cut deeply into the skin, producing grooved scars. The spiral motifs are distinctively Māori. Moko originated in rituals of mourning for the dead. Women would haehae (cut) themselves with shells or obsidian and put soot in the wounds.

Aug 21, 2024 · Explore the rich history and cultural significance of Ta Moko, the traditional Maori tattoo art form that tells stories through intricate facial and body designs.

Jun 6, 2017 · You might have heard about the Māori ‘tattoo’ culture, which is called Tā Moko and is seen as a cultural treasure. It is popular in western pop culture, highly sacred to the Māori and a thus, a very interesting and intensely discussed subject.

Dec 22, 2018 · Arcing from the bridge of his nose to the hairline all around his forehead, like sunbeams, are the faded marks of “ta moko”. This ancient form of tattooing fascinates all who come into contact with it, from the very first European explorers to modern-day tattoo enthusiasts. But what does it mean?

Māori Ta Moko is more than just a tattoo; it’s a sacred art form deeply rooted in the rich culture and traditions of the Māori people of New Zealand. Ta Moko represents one’s genealogy, social status, and personal achievements, telling a unique story etched into the skin.

Ta Moko, rooted in ancient traditions predating modern tattooing, is a sacred art form deeply intertwined with Māori culture. At Soul Wise, we uphold the sanctity of Ta Moko, emphasizing that it is not synonymous with Kirituhi.