Maori - Ta Moko

Yesterday, in Maori class, we learnt about Maori Face Tattoo, in Maori, it's called Ta Moko. We watched a video about the Legend of Mataora and Niwareka. After watching the video, we were told to write the story again but in our own words, writing down the Maori words as well. Mataora is the husband and Niwareka is the wife, Rarohenga/Rarohinga is the underworld, a place where all spirits lives, it's not hell nor heaven.

"The Legend of Mataora and Niwareka"

Mataora and Niwareka, they were living in peace, they were happy but one day Mataora he got jealous and hit Niwareka. Niwareka was hurt, she went to her people, to Rarohinga, the underworld. Mataora was guilty, he regretted his actions towards Niwareka, he wanted her back. He decided that he’ll go after his wife.

He then drew a hopara makaura on his face because he wanted to show Niwareka’s dad that he’s strong enough to protect his wife. Once he had finished, he travelled miles to miles to go where his wife, Niwareka is. Once he got to the underworld (Rarohenga/Rarohinga), his face was smudged with paint because he travelled through rain and the paint ran down his face. Niwareka’s family insulted Mataora because it wasn’t a Ta Moko he’s wearing. Mataora begged for his wife and her family’s forgiveness. Once he got forgiven, he was taught what Ta Moko actually is, he got it tattooed on his face, Niwareka’s father told Mataora that once he got the tattoo, he’ll never dare to hurt his daughter again. They headed back to their home. Niwareka, brining a Taniko and Mataora bringing a Ta Moko.

After that, we had an activity about it as well where we get to put draw hopara makaura (Maori Tattoo) on a face template. I researched pictures on googles for inspiration on my design and I ended up with this.

I put traditional crown with feathers to make it look more traditional-like.