Moko Kauae tattoo designs are more than just a form of body art – they carry a cultural significance that dates back centuries in New Zealand’s indigenous Māori culture. Traditionally, moko kauae were worn exclusively by women, and the design would reflect the individual’s genealogy and social status within their tribe.
Nowadays, these tattoos have grown in popularity among people of all genders and cultural backgrounds, but they still hold a deep meaning for those who choose to adorn their skin with them. The intricate patterns and symbols used in moko kauae designs are not only visually striking, but they also represent a connection to one’s ancestral roots and a commitment to upholding the values and traditions of the Māori people.
Moko Kauae Tattoo Designs
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Nowadays, these tattoos have grown in popularity among people of all genders and cultural backgrounds, but they still hold a deep meaning for those who choose to adorn their skin with them. The intricate patterns and symbols used in moko kauae designs are not only visually striking, but they also represent a connection to one’s ancestral roots and a commitment to upholding the values and traditions of the Māori people.
Tribute to Moko Kauae

If you’re looking for a tattoo design that’s both striking and meaningful, consider honoring Moko Kauae in ink. This traditional Maori chin tattoo is a symbol of strength, identity, and connection to one’s ancestors. Named after the legendary female ancestor who first wore the tattoo, Moko Kauae is now worn proudly by many Maori women as a symbol of their cultural heritage and personal empowerment.
The intricate swirls and curves of the design can be customized to suit your individual style and story, making it a truly unique and personal tribute. Whether you choose to display it as a badge of honor or a subtle secret, a Moko Kauae tattoo will always be a powerful statement of your roots and resilience.
Female warriors

Tattoos have been a form of expression for centuries, and the Moko Kauae is no different. This traditional tattoo design, originating from the Maroi culture, has become a symbol of empowerment for women around the world. The Moko Kauae signifies not an end, but a beginning – the start of a woman’s journey in this world. It serves as a powerful reminder of a culture that should not be forgotten, but rather celebrated and revived.
This black ink design, worn mostly on the lips and chin, tells a beautiful story of strength, resilience, and courage. It is no wonder that so many women are drawn to the Moko Kauae tattoo design. It is a timeless expression of the power and beauty of womanhood.
Spiritual symbol

A spiritual symbol is not just a tattoo but a deeply meaningful representation of tribe and heritage. For the Maori people, this culture has seen a resurgence in recent years with both women and men proudly showing off their individual symbols.
The current New Zealand Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta, proudly displays her Maori culture with a tattoo on her lip and chin. This beautiful design is not just a decorative piece but a powerful statement of identity and belonging. It’s a symbol that speaks volumes, telling the world who you are and where you come from. If you’re looking for a way to show off your tribe and heritage, get inspired by Nanaia’s powerful symbol and let it speak for you.
Tattoo

Tattoos are more than just body art. They can be a reflection of your identity and cultural roots. In Maori culture, tā moko – a form of tattooing that incorporates intricate designs of lines and dots – is an ancient practice that is still relevant today. It is a way to showcase one’s ancestry and heritage, and for Maori women, it has become a rite of passage.
The designs are unique to each individual and also represent their tribal culture. The use of black ink creates a striking contrast against the skin, and the finished product is a beautiful work of art. For those who embrace their true identity as Maori women, the tā moko is a powerful symbol that represents their connection to their culture and the generations before them.
Tribute to Maori women

Tattoos are more than just ink on skin. For many people, they represent an intricate connection to their cultural heritage and ancestral roots. Tribal tattoos, in particular, serve as a living art form that tells a story of identity and tradition. Each design is carefully crafted to portray the uniqueness of the individual, as well as their connection to their tribe and ancestry.
These tattoos are not just about adornment; they are a way to establish one’s status in their culture and showcase the importance of women in their tribes. With its fine lines and black ink, this tattoo design is a stunning testament to the power and beauty of this ancient form of body art.
Oriini Kaipara Facial Tattoo

Oriini Kaipara is a woman who truly embraces her culture and heritage. Her moko kauae, a traditional Maori tattoo on her lip and chin, is a stunning representation of her identity and strength as a Maori woman. She is the first to hold such prominent positions in the media industry, making her a true trailblazer and inspiration for all who follow in her footsteps.
It’s incredible to see a woman with a ta moko host a prime-time news program on national television, breaking barriers and defying stereotypes. With her talent and abilities she represents Maori women nationally with pride, showing that traditional practices and modern careers can coexist beautifully.
Chin tattoo logo

The traditional face tattoos of the Maori women form a beautiful piece of art and their meaning is tied to their culture. When these girls are welcomed into womanhood, the tattoo design is made with line art and is drawn with careful precision by the tattoo artist using black ink.
Although this sacred practice had been abandoned for some time due to its connection with gangs and criminal activities, it recently had a resurgence as courageous young women reclaimed it with pride as part of their culture. Today, the design of these tattoos can be altered to represent each individual wearer – for some, it may take on additional features such as neck or chin extensions; for others, parts may be left out or simplified to signify something special and personal.
Native face tattoo

Tattoos are more than just body art, they can also be a powerful representation of one’s roots and culture. One such example is the traditional Native face tattoo, which serves as a symbol of pride and heritage for those who wear it. These tattoos are not just aesthetically pleasing; they carry deep meanings and personal histories, making them a truly unique and meaningful form of self-expression.
The intricate black ink designs and line art make for a striking and visually appealing display. It’s no wonder that this tattoo design is so highly valued and respected among the Maori people.
Maori tattoo on chin and neck

The Maori people have a rich and intricate cultural history, and one aspect of that history is the art of tattooing. Specifically, Maori tattoos on the chin and neck have a powerful meaning that cannot be ignored. These designs, known as “moko,” are more than just aesthetic choices. They often represent a person’s tribal lineage or individual achievements, making them deeply personal and meaningful to the wearer.
Additionally, the process of receiving a moko involves a significant amount of pain, further emphasizing the wearer’s commitment to their culture and heritage. Whether you are Maori yourself or simply appreciate the beauty and significance of this ancient art, Maori chin and neck tattoos are a fascinating design choice.
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FAQs
Moko Kauae Tattoo Designs
Moko Kauae is a traditional form of facial tattooing used by Māori women in New Zealand. It consists of a series of interlocking shapes and symbols that are unique to the wearer, and can tell stories of their whakapapa (ancestry). The designs are chiseled into the skin using a tool called an uhi, and then ink is smudged into the carved lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Moko Kauae tattoo? A Moko Kauae tattoo is a traditional form of facial tattooing used by Māori women in New Zealand. It consists of a series of interlocking shapes and symbols that are unique to the wearer, and can tell stories of their whakapapa (ancestry). The designs are chiseled into the skin using a tool called an uhi, and then ink is smudged into the carved lines.
Where can I get one? You can find Maori tattoos at many tattoo parlors around the world, including Patong in Phuket Thailand. You can also find moko kauae designs on Etsy or other online stores.
How much does it cost? The cost will vary depending on where you go and how complex your design is. Generally speaking, it will cost between $200-$500 USD for a small moko kauae design. For larger designs or more intricate work, it could cost up to $1000 USD or more.