A New Zealand news presenter recently delivered a powerful response to a viewer who criticized her traditional Māori face tattoo, or moko kauae. The presenter, Oriini Kaipara, has made history as the first person with a moko kauae to anchor a mainstream television news program in New Zealand. Her presence on the airwaves has been celebrated as a significant milestone for representation and cultural pride. However, not everyone has been supportive. A viewer took issue with Kaipara’s moko kauae and sent a complaint, calling it “inappropriate” for a news presenter.
Kaipara, who proudly wears the moko kauae as a symbol of her heritage, did not hold back in addressing the criticism. During a live broadcast, she responded by stating, “My moko kauae is not just a tattoo; it’s a representation of who I am and where I come from. It’s my culture, my whakapapa [genealogy], and my identity.” She went on to highlight that the moko kauae has deep spiritual and cultural significance to Māori women, symbolizing their strength, leadership, and connection to their ancestors. Her remarks quickly resonated with viewers, sparking widespread support on social media.
The moko kauae, a traditional chin tattoo, has long been a sacred practice for Māori women, but it was nearly lost due to colonial oppression. Kaipara explained that wearing it is both a personal and political act. “For centuries, Māori practices were suppressed, and our culture was almost erased. Wearing this moko kauae is about reclaiming what was taken and honoring the resilience of our people.” She added that the moko kauae is earned, often through acts of service to one’s community, and is deeply meaningful to those who wear it.
The viewer’s criticism also sparked a broader discussion about cultural representation in mainstream media. Kaipara’s presence as a news presenter challenges stereotypes and demonstrates that traditional Māori culture and modern professionalism are not mutually exclusive. Many Māori and non-Māori alike praised her for standing her ground and representing her heritage with pride. “It’s about time our screens reflected the diversity of Aotearoa [New Zealand],” one supporter wrote online. Others criticized the viewer’s complaint as an example of lingering prejudice and a refusal to embrace New Zealand’s bicultural identity.
Kaipara’s response has since gone viral, drawing attention to the importance of normalizing indigenous culture in public spaces. Many praised her for using the platform to educate others about the moko kauae and its significance. “Representation matters. When young Māori girls see me, I want them to know that they can succeed while staying true to who they are,” she said. Her stance has further solidified her position as a role model, not just for Māori people but for anyone advocating for greater cultural inclusivity.
The incident has highlighted both the progress and challenges in achieving cultural acceptance in New Zealand. While Kaipara’s success as a news anchor is a significant step forward, the backlash she occasionally faces reveals the work that still needs to be done. For Kaipara, the criticism only reinforces her commitment to showcasing Māori culture and identity. “I’m here because I deserve to be, and my moko kauae is part of what makes me who I am. I won’t apologize for that,” she concluded. Her unapologetic pride continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
