New Zealand

Design Story

This Maori styled New Zealand tattoo prepared for Stacey was inspired by her voyage there.

The frigate bird at the bottom symbolizes her voyage and watching the world from a different perspective, and the ngau pae marks above it symbolize steps along the voyage.

The manta symbolizes beauty and freedom, and we added it to represent the beauty of the landscapes, from sea to mountain.

Koru are symbols of life and tradition, and the Hawaiian lokahi was used to represent tradition and the union and balance between people, nature, and spirits.

The tauira motif represents learning and the hikuaua prosperity.

The north island includes the kiwi as a symbol of generosity, and a taiaha starting near Rotorua.

The niho taniwha symbolize protection against any challenge, and the ahuahu o Mataora represent the steps to success.

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