The Moko is a facial tattoo that the Maori people used to show their rank, tribe, ancestors, heritage, their status and their ferocity and their virility (manliness). Certain outward signs, combined with a particular Moko could instantly reveal the identity of the person. For example, a chief with Moko and at the same time wearing a dog cloak could be identified as a person of authority, in charge of the warriors.
The male facial tattoo - Moko - is generally divided into eight sections :
Ngakaipikirau (rank). The center forehead area
Ngunga (position). Around the brows
Uirere (hapu rank). The eyes and nose area
Uma (first or second marriage). The temples
Raurau (signature). The area under the nose
Taiohou (work). The cheek area
Wairua (mana). The chin
Taitoto (birth status). The jaw
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