Editorial: Ta moko more than tattoo

Air New Zealand and, unfortunately, some New Zealanders need to take a step back and breathe.

Earlier this week, Claire Nathan said her job interview with Air New Zealand was cut short when it was noticed she had a ta moko on her forearm. She was told the company's policy was for no visible tattoos.

Talkback has gone crazy with some supporting the policy and others against it.

I'm all for free speech and free thinking but I'm totally against ignorance.

Many who supported Air New Zealand's stance said tattoos were unprofessional and inappropriate. Perhaps some are but there are many cultures around the world where tattoos are an integral part of their culture.

Maori and ta moko go hand in hand. Ta moko is just as important as the haka for Maori. I'd argue the fact that ta moko isn't a tattoo.

Firstly the definition by the Urban Dictionary for tattoo is a form of body modification, ink permanently implanted under the skin, while thefreedictionary.com defines ta moko as a visual representation of a person's genealogical links, personal achievements and connections to people and places of the heart.

Ta moko for many Maori is a rite of passage, something which is earned or passed down from generation to generation. I have a ta moko and it is not a tattoo. I'm proud it graces my body and it represents my whakapapa (genealogy).

I don't see my ta moko as a bit of ink placed on my body as a decoration or a fashion statement. It tells the story of who I am, where I've come from and with my children represented in my ta moko - where my future lies.

I find it ironic that when it suits we have people in our country who with no consideration, stand up and bastardise our haka saying they are proud to be a Kiwi.

But when Ms Nathan decides to proudly show her genealogy, she is told she is not required for the position.