We strengthen individuals by fortifying their connection to cultural heritage, identity
and roots through the profound art of moko.
Tā moko
Kirituhi
Tatau
Tattooing
01
Tā moko
Ta moko is the art of Māori skin marking and is a unique expression of Māori cultural heritage and identity.
Within Māori culture, tā moko reflects the individual's whakapapa (ancestry) and personal history. In earlier times it was an important signifier of social rank, knowledge, skill and eligibility to marry.
02
Kirituhi
Kirituhi is Māori tattooing created by a non-Māori tattoo artist or
fashioned by a non-Māori wearer.
Kirituhi has mana of it's own and is designed to tell the unique
story of the wearer in the visual language of Māori art and design.
03
Tatau
Historically there was no written language in Polynesian culture. As such, the Polynesian people used tattooing with distinctive patterns to express their identity and personality.
Traditionally, polynesian tatau was an indicator for maturity, genealogy and ones social rank within society. Nearly everyone in ancient Polynesian society was tattooed.
3/156 Glenda Drive Frankton
Queenstown 9300
New Zealand
Phone: 022 170 6070
Email: admin@tuatahi.art
