TV Presenter With Māori Face Tattoo Responds to Viewer’s ‘Bad Look’ Comment
A New Zealand news presenter has responded to a viewer who repeatedly complained about her Māori face tattoo.
Oriini Kaipara made history in 2021 as the first person with a moko kauae to host a primetime news program on national television. The moko kauae is a traditional facial tattoo worn by Māori women, typically on the chin.
While Kaipara was widely praised for representing Māori culture on mainstream media, one viewer persistently criticized her appearance, calling the tattoo “offensive” and a “bad look.”
After receiving multiple complaints, Kaipara decided to respond publicly, making it clear she would not tolerate the criticism.
Many people quickly rallied in her defense on social media.
“A rich cultural heritage is something to honor, respect, and embrace,” one person wrote.
Another commented, “It’s beautiful and about time.”
Kaipara got her moko kauae in 2019 as a way to connect with her heritage. She explained to CNN, “When I doubt myself and see my reflection, I’m not just looking at myself. I’m looking at my grandmother, my mother, my daughters, and all the Māori women who came before me. It empowers me.”
Alongside her traditional tattoo, Kaipara regularly incorporates Māori phrases into her broadcasts, hoping to encourage more people to embrace the language. She sees it as a way to reclaim cultural identity, noting that the Māori language was once suppressed in New Zealand.
Although most viewers send her positive and supportive messages, Kaipara acknowledged that one complainant, known only as David, had been relentless in his criticism.
David wrote multiple emails to the newsroom, mislabeling her tattoo as a “moku” and calling it “aggressive” and “offensive.” He also objected to the use of the Māori language in broadcasts, despite its regular inclusion on New Zealand television.
Kaipara’s response sent a clear message: Māori culture deserves to be celebrated, not criticized.
