Oriini Kaipara, a distinguished figure in television, marked her place in history as she became the first primetime TV news presenter in New Zealand to proudly display a moko kauae, a traditional Māori face tattoo. At 41, Oriini has not only showcased her journalistic skills but also her deep-rooted pride in her Māori heritage.
The moko kauae holds profound cultural significance for the Māori, the indigenous Polynesian people of mainland New Zealand. These tattoos, which are typically located on the lips and chin, are more than mere body art; they symbolize the wearer’s family background, leadership role within her community, and her connection to her ancestry. They are a living expression of her personal identity, social status, and capabilities.
In the face of online debates where opinions diverge on the appropriateness of facial tattoos—some seeing them as inappropriate for certain settings, while others recognize their important cultural relevance—Oriini stood gracefully against criticism. She addressed negative remarks from a viewer with dignity and used the opportunity to express her strong commitment to her cultural identity. This act of pride and advocacy not only underlines her role as a leader in her community but also as a pioneer in redefining professional norms and cultural representation in mainstream media.