New Zealand's Maori women reclaim ancestral chin tattoos

In New Zealand, Maori women are reclaiming tradition through moko kauae — sacred chin tattoos suppressed under colonial rule.

For Tracey Carlton, receiving the permanent skin marking was a life-changing act of celebrating her Indigenous identity and taking pride in her cultural heritage.

Each design is imbued with deep meaning, symbolizing ancestry, strength and solidarity.

Once almost extinct, moko kauae are now being embraced by a new generation, becoming more and more visible in the public sphere — despite lingering prejudice.