This Polynesian half sleeve tattoo prepared for Matt is part of a larger piece dedicated to wa'a (Polynesian canoe) racing, made by the two half sleeves joined on the back by an upper back manta.

Some elements are common to all the three parts due to their significance: spearheads, octopus tentacles, shark teeth, rows of birds, and tiki.

The left sleeve is symmetrical to the right, with some changes: the hammerhead shark represents a warrior, tenacity and determination, and we used it to represent Matt and how he faces every challenge (the path of Kamehameha) without giving up, with tenacity and strength.
This brings him success and joy (the sun), and prosperity (fish and fish hook, and the coconut leaves around the shoulders).

As in the other sleeve, the ahuahu o Mataora with the puhoro motif represents the steps to success and speed.

Both right and left sleeves include stepping stones at the base for all the things learnt and achieved.

The colored image below shows the main elements within the tattoo: