Labour MP Nanaia Mahuta will start Parliament tomorrow wearing a moko kauae – a traditional tattoo on her chin.
She will become the first woman MP to wear the moko in Parliament.
The move has been welcomed by other MP’s. Greens MP Marama Davidson said, “I think this is fantastic and it’s an international moment”.
She said Ms Mahuta may well be the only member of parliament worldwide to wear an indigenous marking on her face.
Ms Mahuta was one of 14 women who received a moko kauae in a ceremony held at the weekend at Kingi Tuheitia’s marae, Waahi Pā.
She thought it was a good idea to acknowledge 10 years since the passing of the late Māori Queen, Te Arikinui Te Atairangi Kaahu and also commemorate Kingi Tuheitia who has been in the role for 10 years
What is a Moko kauae?
A moko kauae is a female chine tattoo. They receive them on the basis of their mana, established through their whakapapa. They were nominated by the hapū to ensure there was a woman of mana to represent them on the marae.
One Response
Awesome i want a moku kauae