P4. TV presenter with Māori face tattoo hits back at cruel trolls.

Online discussions frequently arise about facial tattoos, as some people believe tattoos should only be on the body, while others appreciate their cultural importance.

Oriini Kaipara, aged 41, became a pioneer in the field of television presenting. She created history by joining New Zealand’s Newshub as a newsreader. Oriini became the first-ever primetime  TV news bulletin presenter to proudly wear a moko kauae, a significant cultural symbol for Māori women.

The Māori people, who are the original Polynesian inhabitants of mainland New Zealand, consider moko kauae as significant representations of their heritage and identity. These tattoos on the face, traditionally placed on the lips and chins, represent a woman’s family ties, her role as a leader in her community, and acknowledge her ancestry, social standing, and abilities.

Despite the praise, David expressed his dissatisfaction with Kaipara’s moko kauae in an email to Newshub.

The Daily Mail reported that we strongly oppose the use of a Māori newsreader with a moku [moko] that looks offensive and aggressive. It’s not a good look. Additionally, she speaks in the Māori language, which we don’t understand. Please stop it immediately.

Despite David’s negative comments, Kaipara courageously confronted the problem directly. She shared screenshots of the messages on her Instagram story and responded with poise and respect.

She wrote on her Instagram story, “Today was the day I had enough. I finally responded, which is something I never do. I went against my own principles and clicked the send button.” This was accompanied by a screenshot of David’s message.

Kaipara also sent an email to David, stating that she couldn’t take his complaint seriously because “there is no violation of broadcast standards.”

She also emphasized correcting his spelling of moko, since David had mistakenly written “moku”.

In her email, Kaipara mentioned that your complaints seem to be based on your personal preferences regarding how people should appear on screen. She emphasized that Moko and those associated with them should not be subjected to discrimination, harassment, or prejudice as they are not threatening.

“We have no intention to cause harm or ill will, and we/I do not deserve to be treated with such disrespect,” she added. “Kindly refrain from further complaints and try to overcome your cultural ignorance and bias, as if you were living in the 1800s.”

Despite David’s harsh criticism, Kaipara quickly mentioned that she mostly receives positive comments and encounters very few mean trolls.

Kaipara emphasized the importance of having more Māori advocates in various sectors during an interview with the New Zealand Herald. She mentioned that her mere existence triggering some individuals highlights the necessity for increased representation.

Overall, Kaipara’s dignified reaction is a strong reminder of how cultural pride and resilience are crucial when dealing with challenges. She is motivating others to confidently embrace their identities and stand up against discrimination.

What are your thoughts on this story? Share your opinions in the comments section!

Oriini Kaipara’s graceful response to negative comments about her Māori face tattoo, known as a moko kauae, is a powerful testament to cultural pride and resilience. As the first-ever primetime TV newsreader in New Zealand to wear the traditional tattoo, Oriini has become a trailblazer for Māori representation on television and a symbol of her community’s strength and heritage.

The moko kauae is deeply significant in Māori culture, representing a woman’s ancestral ties, leadership, and social status. For Oriini, wearing the tattoo is not only an expression of her identity but also a proud statement of her people’s history. However, her visibility as a newsreader has also invited criticism from some viewers, such as one man named David, who emailed Newshub to complain about her appearance and use of the Māori language on air.

David’s message expressed dissatisfaction, calling the moko "offensive and aggressive," and asking for its removal from broadcast. Despite these remarks, Oriini addressed the issue with dignity. She shared the message on her Instagram story, noting that although she usually avoids responding to negative comments, she felt compelled to reply this time. In her email response to David, she calmly corrected his spelling of "moko" and pointed out that his complaints were rooted in personal bias rather than any breach of broadcasting standards.

She wrote, “We/I do not deserve to be treated with such disrespect,” emphasizing that moko are not threatening and should not be subject to discrimination or prejudice. Oriini’s response was a firm yet respectful reminder that cultural symbols like the moko kauae deserve respect and understanding.

In an interview with the New Zealand Herald, Oriini highlighted the importance of Māori representation in various sectors, stating that the discomfort some people feel when seeing cultural symbols on mainstream platforms only reinforces the need for more visibility. She also noted that the overwhelming majority of feedback she receives is positive, and the occasional negative comment only serves to strengthen her resolve.

Oriini’s story is a reminder of the strength that comes from embracing one’s identity, even in the face of ignorance or criticism. Her dignified response and unwavering pride in her culture inspire others to stand tall and confront prejudice with grace and determination.

What are your thoughts on Oriini’s response and her role as a cultural trailblazer? Share your opinions in the comments below!