Behaviour, not moko matter in local bars

Many of Rotorua's bars adopt a realistic approach when it comes to allowing visibly tattooed customers on to their premises.

A man was asked to leave a Christchurch bar because of his full facial ta moko (traditional Maori tattoo) recently. However, local licensed premises say ta moko and other tattoos didn't mean automatic entry refusal, with bar managers and bouncers instead focusing on behaviour, attitude and dress.

Rotorua publican Reg Hennessy, who is vice president of Hospitality Association of New Zealand, said none of his bars had a specific facial tattoo policy and wouldn't deny anyone entry for having a moko, but they reserve the right to make any calls on tattoos as they arise.

"Issues such as visible tattoos or inappropriate dress are left to the discretion of the individual bar owners, if they don't want to serve somebody that is their right," he said.

Mr Hennessy said from what he understood of the Christchurch matter, staff could have handled it better by not taking the no-tattoo policy so strictly, but in the hospitality industry things were not always that easy.

"In fairness, staff these days are expected to do a lot, they are often young and under immense pressure, there's a lot to deal with," he said.

Seismic Gastrobar owner Mericia Waqanimarvu said common sense was a major factor for bar staff when dealing with someone who had any kind of visible tattoo and a moko would never be a reason used when asking someone to leave.

"It's not an issue for us here as long as there are no intimidating mannerisms toward other patrons you're not going to deny entry," she said.

Rotorua international speaker Ngahi Bidois said the designs in his moko were a gift from his Maori ancestors. He said he chose to wear it on his face.

Once, about five years ago, he was refused entry to a Rotorua bar by a bouncer who told him he would have to check with management before letting him in. He was allowed in and received an apology.

"It's not fair to exclude people from a bar because of their tattoos, people wear tattoos on all parts of their bodies so why are they not being excluded."

Sandpit manager Tui Kotuhi said moko and other tattoos were fine in the bar as long as the person was well dressed and not intoxicated.

"Everyone is given a chance when they walk in the door. They are treated the same as long as they are well dressed," she said.