Māori tattoo is not “tribal decoration.” It’s a living cultural system governed by tikanga (protocol), identity, genealogy, and community authority. That is why the words matter — Maori tāmoko is not the same thing as kirituhi, and not every artist is permitted to practice or claim it.

Expert tattoo cover-ups and scar tissue tattoos by King 'Afa. Learn the real challenges and artistry behind transforming old ink and scarred skin.