If you’re here visiting our beautiful country, you’ll want a memento of your time in New Zealand, and what other way is more perfect than a Maori tattoo?
Tristan is the man to see!
Tristan is our resident tattoo artist who specialises in Maori tattoos and Pacifica designs.
Being Maori himself, Tristan understands the meaning, complexity and history behind genuine Maori tattoos.
From Hokianga in the Northland, Tristan is of Te Rarawa descent, and graduated in 2014 from the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute.
With his diploma in traditional wood carving (Whakairo Rakau), Tristan specializes in Ta Moko, Blackwork, pattern work, geometric and dot-work tattoo styles.
Ta Moko tattoos
It’s impossible to know when Tā Moko first started as there are no written records before the Europeans arrived. Instead, historians have had to rely on archaeologists and the accounts of the first European settlers.
Excavated sites have found tattooing tools dating back to the very earliest settlers, using the technique of rhythmically tapping a bone chisel, lashed to a small wooden shaft into the skin.
Some of the earliest accounts of tattooing in New Zealand were by Captain James Cook’s artist on board the Endeavour, Sydney Parkinson. Parkinson sketched and painted local Maori displaying their Moko, and described in detail the different styles and patterns he witnessed.
Come talk to us about a Maori tattoo
If you’re backpacking or holidaying here in New Zealand and would like a beautiful reminder of your time here, call in and see us for the perfect souvenir - a beautiful, unique Maori tattoo.
Despite only being a few years old, Sunset Tattoo is one of the most respected tattoo studios in Auckland, priding ourselves on our dedication to our strict health and hygiene practices.
Our desire to only use the very best materials and equipment led us to create our own tattoo supply company, Tattoo Station.
Come talk to us today if you’re interested in a stunning Maori Tattoo.
