Top 10 Traditional Maori Tattoos Designs & Their Meanings

Best Maori Tattoos For Men

Maori tattoo style is the oldest tattoo design since the 1700s. It came from New Zealand. Where different tribes and cultures who piercing their skin with a sharp objects with ink.

Maori tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years, both for their intricate designs and the symbolism behind them. Maori tattoos are a form of body art originating in New Zealand and the Polynesian Islands, with each design having its own meaning. In this blog post, we explore 10 of the most popular Maori tattoo designs and their meanings. From traditional tribal motifs to modern geometric shapes, each of these designs has something unique meaning.  So if you’re looking for a unique and meaningful way to express yourself, Maori tattoos are the best choice.

maori tattoos for men on chest and arms

Maori tattoo designs have many different kinds of symbols. Every symbol or sign stands for some specific meaning for their people. Those people who have Maori tattoo designs on their bodies are very proud people. They take their culture very seriously. Not only are Maori tattoos aesthetically beautiful, but they also carry deep spiritual and cultural meanings that are unique to each design.

Popular 10 Types Of Maori Tattoos :

Maori tattoos, also known as Ta Moko, are deeply meaningful symbols that have been worn by the Maori people of New Zealand for centuries. These incredible tattoo designs are steeped in tradition, each one carrying its own special meaning. Today, the popularity of Maori tattoos continues to grow, as more and more people choose Maori tattoo designs for their bodies. Here we will discuss the most popular types of Maori tattoo designs and What do Maori tattoos symbolize? Here are the 10 Types of Maori Style Tattoos below and their meanings:

1: The Ta Moko

Ta Moko is a traditional Maori form of tattooing that has gained popularity over the years for its unique, intricate designs and powerful symbolism. Ta Moko tattoos are known for their highly personalized and symbolic designs, with each one tailored to reflect the wearer’s identity, life experiences, and ancestry.

The Ta Moko Maori Tattoo picture

The Ta Moko design usually consists of swirling patterns, spirals, and other shapes, which represent various aspects of the wearer’s life and culture. For example, some designs represent the strength of a tribe or family, while others symbolize the spirit world, protection, and guidance. These unique designs are often combined with other forms of tattoo art such as Polynesian or tribal designs, giving the wearer a truly personalized and distinctive look.

ta moko maori tattoo for women on chin

When considering a Ta Moko tattoo, it is important to choose a design that is personally meaningful and reflects the wearer’s story. Researching various Maori tattoo designs and ideas is an essential step in the process as it can help narrow down the choices and ensure that the design is authentic and meaningful. Consulting a tattoo artist who specializes in Maori art can be beneficial, as they can offer valuable advice on how to incorporate cultural elements into the design. Ultimately, a Ta Moko tattoo should be something that celebrates and honors the wearer’s identity, culture, and heritage.

ta moko back tattoo for women

What is the best placement for Maori Tattoos:

Men mainly can have Maori tattoos on their faces, buttocks, and both arms. Some men can have Maori tattoos on their thighs. Women usually wore Maori tattoos on their lips, chin, and back. But it’s the wearer’s choice where they want their forth-coming tattoo design.

2: The Koru

The Koru is a popular Maori tattoo design that symbolizes peace, tranquility, new beginnings, and personal growth. It is usually represented as a spiral design that is said to represent the unfurling of a new fern frond. The koru is a unique Maori tattoo design that holds a great deal of cultural significance. It is an important symbol of the Maori culture and can be seen in many pieces of art by the Maori people.

koru tattoo designs

The koru tattoo can be used to express a variety of different meanings depending on the wearer’s intentions. For some, it represents a spiritual journey and the search for inner peace. For others, it is a symbol of hope and optimism for the future. No matter the meaning behind the tattoo, the koru tattoo is an incredibly powerful representation of the Maori culture and tradition.

koru honu maori tattoo design

When looking for Maori tattoo designs, the koru is one of the most popular choices due to its deep symbolism and its aesthetic beauty. The koru is a great option for those looking to honor their Maori heritage or simply wanting to make a statement with their tattoo.

3: The Manaia

The Manaia is a powerful symbol with deep spiritual and cultural significance in Maori culture. It is an ancient mythical creature that has the head of a bird and the body of a man. It is often depicted with curved lines that resemble a hook-like shape, representing protection, power, and authority. The Manaia symbol is believed to be a messenger between the physical world and the spirit world.

manaia tattoo

manaia tattoo for women

manaia tattoo for girls

The Manaia tattoo is one of the most popular Maori tattoo designs. Not only does it represent spiritual protection and power, but it can also be used to symbolize strength, courage, and wisdom. For many, this symbol is a reminder to stay connected to their roots, culture, and to their traditions.

4: The Hei Matau

The Hei Matau is a symbol of strength and prosperity, originating from Maori culture. It is traditionally carved in the form of a fish hook and is often found adorning the necks and arms of many people of Maori heritage. The Hei Matau symbolizes determination, prosperity, and fertility. It also stands for strength, courage, good luck, and safe passage over water, which is why it is often worn by seafarers or travelers.

The Hei Matau

For those looking for unique and meaningful Maori tattoo designs, the Hei Matau is a perfect choice. With its strong symbolism and powerful message, this Maori tattoo idea is a great way to express one’s connection to the Maori culture.

The Hei Matau

5: The Tiki

The Tiki is a popular Maori tattoo design, often used as a symbol of protection. It is believed that the Tiki was the first man created by the gods and it symbolizes strength, courage, and endurance. The design can also be seen as an ode to the creator of the universe, with its curved lines representing the natural forces of creation. For Maoris, the Tiki is an embodiment of the divine spirit within all living things.

the tiki maori tattoo

Maori tattoos featuring the Tiki often represent bravery and faith in life’s journey. By wearing this Maori tattoo design, one may experience a sense of comfort, stability, and belonging. It is believed that having the Tiki design inked onto your body will bring about good luck, protection, and strength when going through difficult times.

the tiki maori tattoo

For those who are looking for meaningful Maori tattoo ideas, the Tiki is a perfect choice. With its symbolic meaning and beautiful curves, the Tiki represents resilience and perseverance. As a reminder of the divine spirit within, it is a perfect way to honor and protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Tiki maori tattoos

6: The Toki

The Toki is one of the most popular Maori tattoo designs, representing strength and courage. It symbolizes determination and perseverance and is a reminder to never give up on your goals. The Toki is also seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. The lines of the Toki design often mimic waves, representing the journey of life, and the idea that you should keep moving forward no matter what challenges come your way.

The Toki maori tattoo

Maori tattoo ideas incorporating the Toki often use patterns such as swirls and curves, adding extra meaning to the design. The Toki can also be accompanied by other symbols and designs, making for an impressive and meaningful piece of body art.

The Toki maori tattoos

7: The Twist

The Maori people believe that the patterns used in their traditional art form, including tattoos, are a way of telling stories. Each design carries with it its own unique meaning, which can range from strength, protection, courage, and power, to family lineage and honor.

The Twist maori tattoos

For those looking to add some twist to their Maori tattoos, they can combine two or more designs to create a unique look. For example, a combination of a koru (which symbolizes strength and growth) with a moko (a facial tattoo that symbolizes identity) will provide a beautiful contrast between two powerful designs.

8: The Wave

Maori tattoos are some of the most unique and beautiful designs in the world. The Maori people have a strong connection to their culture, and their body art reflects this connection. Maori tattoo designs typically feature intricate patterns and intricate symbols, which carry deep meaning and represent the wearer’s identity.

the wave maori tattoos

The wave is one of the most popular Maori tattoo designs. It is used to represent strength and power, as it is believed to symbolize the power of the ocean and the life within it. The wave is also said to symbolize perseverance and the flow of life. It is believed that by having this design on your body, you will be blessed with the strength and courage to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

maori tattoos for women

When looking for a Maori tattoo idea, the wave is definitely a great choice. It is versatile, so you can use it to express anything from strength and courage to joy and love. Plus, it looks great on almost any area of the body, including the arms, legs, and chest. You can also combine it with other Maori tattoo designs for a truly unique look.

No matter what type of Maori tattoo design you choose, make sure that it carries a special meaning for you. Maori tattoos are a powerful way to show your connection to your culture, so make sure that you choose a design that truly speaks to you.

9: The Weaving

Maori tattoos, also known as Ta Moko, are a form of body art originating from the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand. The intricate designs are a unique expression of one’s identity and culture, making them highly sought-after tattoos.

maori tattoos on chest

The traditional Maori tattoo designs are typically intricate patterns or images that are woven into the skin using chisels and pigment. Each design carries symbolic meanings, often reflecting the values and beliefs of the wearer. The weaving of these symbols and shapes gives the tattoo a sense of power and strength.

The Weaving maori tattoo

These are just a few of the many Maori tattoo designs available to choose from. If you’re looking for something unique that has deep cultural roots, a weaving Maori tattoo might be just what you’re looking for.

10: The Chevron

The Chevron is a popular Maori tattoo design that symbolizes strength and leadership. It usually consists of curved lines or chevrons, which can be seen as a representation of the arrows used by Maori warriors in battle. The Chevron tattoo can also represent the traditional Maori way of life, where people worked together to provide for the whole community.

maori tattoo designs for men on arms

It is a great way to honor the traditional values of the Maori culture while also looking stylish. If you’re looking for a meaningful Maori tattoo idea, Chevron is an excellent option.

Here we collected some of the best and cool Maori tattoo designs with their meaning as well. Please take a look:

shark maori tattoo designs

maori tattoo on shoulder

dwayne the rock johnson maori chest tattoos

hei taiaha maori tattoo designs

Manta ray maori style tattoo on back

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Some More Attractive Maori Style Pattern Drawings and tattoo ideas are shown below:

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maori tattoo pattern

But now in these days, Maori tattoo designs are widely seen across the world.
Maori tattoos are gaining popularity among women as well. Maori tattoo designs have large shapes and triple kind of pattern designs with black ink and their size can depend on the design and the location. There are many designs in that style names are as: Koru, mataora, kakau, Hei matau, hei tiki, etc. These designs can’t be in color. And the perfect places for these designs are like Face, Neck, Back, Chest, arms, and legs.

Read More About Moari Tattoos And Their Types here.

Sandra Pele
Sandra Pele
As a professional tattoo artist, Sandra Pele brings her creative expertise and passion for art to every design she creates. With years of experience in the industry, Sandra is known for her unique style, attention to detail, and ability to bring her clients’ visions to life. Check Out sandra's blog.

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