By Thalita Alves. Traditional M?ori tattoos, known as t? moko, carry a lot of spiritual and mythical meaning. … Anyone can get kirituhi, no matter where they come from or their cultural upbringing: they have been created so that M?ori can share their customs with the masses.
Likewise, who is mataora and Niwareka?
Mataora and Niwareka
According to legend, Mataora, a rangatira who lived in Te Ao T?roa (the natural world), married a t?rehu (spirit) named Niwareka, from Rarohenga (the underworld). One day he struck Niwareka across the face in a rage. She fled back to her homeland, as domestic violence was unheard of in Rarohenga.
Accordingly, what does a tattoo on a woman’s chin mean?
Most notably, they were tattooed on the chin as part of the ritual of social maturity, a signal to men that a woman had reached puberty. Chin patterns also served to protect women during enemy raids. … More generally, the chin stripe aesthetic was important to the Diomede Islanders living in Bering Strait.
What is the difference between Ta Moko and Kirituhi?
Moko has in recent years been divided into two main branches; Ta Moko and Kirituhi. Ta Moko is primarily for those of Maori blood and descent, while Kirituhi is for those of non Maori heritage. Ta Moko and Kirituhi tell a story, the story of the person wearing the tattoo.
Who made Ta Moko?
A less historical explanation of the origin of Maori tattoo can be found in the local legend which suggests that ta moko, the Maori tattoo, came from the underworld, called Uetonga. The legend states that there was a young warrior called Mataora, who fell in love with the princess of the underworld, called Niwareka.
Where is mataora?
Mataora marae is located in Mataora Bay, 20 km north east of Waihi. The principal iwi associated with Mataora is Ng?ti Porou.
