Rotorua ta moko experts slam magazine shoot

Rotorua ta moko experts have slammed a French magazine's use of a Maori-inspired design on a model but say Maori need to be more proactive in explaining its significance.
French rugby fullback Alexis Palisson was photographed in French gay and lesbian magazine Tetu sporting a copy of a Maori ta moko design on his face, back and arms. He was pictured shirtless, carrying a spear.
"For me, Maori tattoos are like the haka," he said in the article.
"It is a tradition that I respect and is part of rugby ... Many rugby players like to be tattooed with designs from over there."
Tetu editor-in-chief Gilles Wullus said the photo shoot should be seen as a tribute to New Zealand.
Palisson has since expressed his regret at causing any offence and a representative of the French Rugby Federation said the organisation was not trying to trade on Maori culture.
Rotorua-based ta moko artist Hohua Mohi said ta moko, especially moko kanohi (facial moko), were sacred and its use was inappropriate in the magazine.
"They probably would not have known how sacred the moko is to Maori. I can see what they were trying to do but I wish they would have consulted somebody."
Mr Mohi said it was easy to condemn the magazine for using moko but it was up to Maori to educate the rest of the world about its use and significance.
Rotorua's Richard Francis said it was sad for traditionalists to see moko used in such a way.
"They have to look past their arrogance and approach us for the education behind the art. We can't really stop them from doing it but we can educate them.
"It's a part of our people, its not just an art form, it's who we are," Mr Francis said.
But broadcaster and former associate minister for Maori Affairs John Tamihere applauded the use of the moko, saying it put the spotlight on Maori culture and was good publicity.
Overseas teams were getting into the spirit of the cup by incorporating Kiwi culture.
- Additional reporting APN News & Media