Māori facial tattoos, known as ta moko, are an important part of New Zealand’s indigenous culture. They represent heritage, social status, and personal identity. For Māori women, these tattoos were applied to specific areas of the face, each with a deep cultural and spiritual meaning.
This topic explores where female Māori tattoos were placed, their symbolism, and their continued significance in modern times.
What Is Ta Moko?
Ta moko is the traditional tattooing practice of the Māori people. Unlike modern tattoos, it is not just ink under the skin but deeply carved patterns made using chisels. Each design is unique and tells a person’s ancestral lineage, achievements, and role in society.
For Māori women, these tattoos were not just decorative—they were marks of prestige and beauty.
Facial Areas Where Female Māori Were Tattooed
1. Lips and Chin (Moko Kauae)
The most common and significant tattoo for Māori women is the moko kauae, placed on the chin and lips.
✔️ Chin (kauae) – Represents a woman’s mana (spiritual power) and connection to her ancestry. It often signifies leadership and wisdom.
✔️ Lips – Often fully or partially darkened, symbolizing dignity and maturity.
The moko kauae is considered a rite of passage, traditionally given when a woman reached adulthood or after achieving an important social status.
2. Forehead (Ngutu)
Some high-ranking Māori women had tattoos on the forehead. This area was reserved for women of chiefly status, signifying knowledge, power, and spiritual connection.
Forehead tattoos were less common but were seen among leaders and women of noble descent.
3. Cheeks (Pukana)
Tattoos on the cheeks were rarer for women but held important meanings. They were usually applied to warriors or women of high social standing.
✔️ Right cheek – Represented achievements in battle or personal strength.
✔️ Left cheek – Symbolized family connections and tribal identity.
In some cases, women who were skilled in oral traditions or storytelling received cheek tattoos as a sign of their status.
4. Jawline and Throat
Some Māori women had extended moko kauae that ran from the chin down to the jawline and throat.
✔️ These tattoos were believed to enhance a woman’s connection to the spiritual world.
✔️ They also protected the wearer, acting as a sacred mark of strength and identity.
This placement was often chosen by women of great wisdom, healers, or those who held significant spiritual roles in their communities.
The Meaning Behind Female Māori Tattoos
Each ta moko design was unique, carrying personal, tribal, and ancestral significance. However, some common meanings include:
✔️ Spiritual strength – A connection to ancestors and the gods.
✔️ Leadership – Many women with moko kauae were community leaders.
✔️ Identity – Represented family history, social rank, and personal achievements.
✔️ Beauty – Considered a mark of natural beauty and personal pride.
For Māori women, their moko was their whakapapa (genealogy), telling the story of who they were and where they came from.
The Tattooing Process
Traditional Tools and Methods
Unlike modern tattooing, Māori tattoos were traditionally carved into the skin using chisels called uhi. This method created deep grooves, making ta moko unique compared to needle-based tattoos.
✔️ Pigments – Made from burnt wood or natural dyes.
✔️ Carving technique – Instead of puncturing the skin, moko involved cutting and staining the design.
✔️ Painful process – Ta moko was a sacred but painful experience, symbolizing strength and endurance.
After the tattoo was completed, it required careful healing and was often treated with special oils and herbs.
The Revival of Moko Kauae
In recent years, moko kauae has experienced a revival among Māori women. Many are reclaiming this ancient tradition as a way to honor their ancestors and cultural heritage.
✔️ Modern moko artists use tattoo machines but still respect traditional patterns.
✔️ Many Māori women proudly wear moko kauae today, reinforcing their identity.
✔️ It is no longer just for chiefs or leaders, but for any Māori woman who chooses to embrace it.
Māori facial tattoos, particularly the moko kauae, remain a powerful symbol of identity, heritage, and beauty. Traditionally, these tattoos were placed on the chin, lips, forehead, cheeks, and jawline, each carrying deep cultural significance.
As more Māori women embrace ta moko in the modern world, this sacred tradition continues to thrive, ensuring its legacy for future generations.