Tourists get inked

In tutorial a few weeks ago we ended the session with a discussion about people getting Maori style tattoos when they do not realise the true meaning of what they are getting. A recent New Zealand Herald article suggested that Maori tattoos are a reminder of the world cup experience in New Zealand rather than images containing cultural, historical and traditional importance. The article talked about French tourists getting Maori moko designs because they ‘wanted them’ and saw them as a souvenir from their trip. ‘Otautahi Tattoo Studio’ on Kroad said that their studio had been “so popular with tourists since the world cup” that they had to take on another tattoo artist. The manager stated that “at least five tourists a day, mostly with ta moko designs” were getting tattoos in his studio. I feel that it is unfortunate that many tourists are getting these traditional, cultural, meaningful tattoos without understanding the true meaning and history of the images. I think that tattoo artists should inform their customers more on what each image means along with its cultural importance so that customers can then decide if they feel it is appropriate or not to go ahead and ‘get inked’.

“Rugby World Cup tourists get inked with Maori designs”. Imorgen Crispe 5.30am Sun Oct 16 New Zealand Herald.