In New Zealand, journalist Oiirini Kaipara has made history by becoming the first woman with a 'moko kauae', the traditional Maori women's tattoo, to present a prime time news programme on national channel Three. The tattoo, unlike the men's 'moko mataora', which spans the entire face, covers the space between the mouth and chin on the women's. It is made up of intricate line patterns and marks the transition from childhood to adulthood. The 38-year-old journalist got the tattoo in 2019 after a DNA test revealed she was 98% Maori. Ms Kaipara spoke out proudly about her identity and cultural heritage at the time, hoping to inspire other women to reconnect with their roots. At the time, she became the first tattooed news anchor when she presented a show on TVNZ. Follow ORIINI KAIPARA on instagram: @oriinz
