Māori Face Tattoo Meanings

Breaking Barriers: First Māori Face Tattoo on Prime-Time News

Oriini Kaipara recently made history by becoming the first person with a Māori face tattoo, known as moko kauae, to present primetime news. The 37-year-old, of Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa, Tūwharetoa, and Ngāti Rangitihi descent, hosted Newshub’s 6 o’clock news, marking a significant moment for both Kaipara and the Māori community.

Kaipara’s moko kauae is a sacred lower chin tattoo worn by Māori women, symbolizing Māori identity and prestige. She acquired the tattoo in 2017 after discovering through a DNA test that she was 100 percent Māori. Understanding the historical significance of her achievement, Kaipara expressed her awareness of breaking new ground for Māori and people of color alike.

The experienced presenter, a former documentary filmmaker, previously anchored TVNZ’s midday broadcast in 2019. However, hosting the prime-time news represents a substantial step forward for Kaipara and her community. She shared her joy at the positive responses received, particularly from the Māori audience, who appreciated the correct pronunciation of Māori words and place names.

Kaipara acknowledged the weight of her role, recognizing that each step she takes is akin to breaking through a glass ceiling. Despite the pressure, she emphasized the importance of using identity and culture as sources of power, encouraging the next generation not to let these aspects hold them back.

In Māori tradition, the art of tattooing, known as tā moko, is a unique expression of cultural heritage and identity. Kaipara’s moko kauae is a testament to this tradition, showcasing the resurgence of Māori tattooing in both traditional and modern forms.

The significance of Kaipara’s achievement extends beyond individual accomplishment, representing a broader movement towards cultural recognition and empowerment. Her pioneering role follows in the footsteps of Nanaia Mahuta, New Zealand’s first Indigenous female foreign minister, who also proudly wore moko kauae.

Kaipara’s journey serves as an inspiration, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of pride within the Māori community. As she continues to make strides in her career, she carries the hopes of many, proving that cultural identity can be a powerful force for positive change.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Up Worthy}