A New Zealand television presenter with a traditional Māori face tattoo has responded gracefully to online criticism, reaffirming her pride in her heritage and identity. Oriini Kaipara, 41, made history as the first primetime newsreader with a moko kauae—a sacred chin tattoo worn by Māori women that symbolizes ancestry, leadership, and cultural pride.
While many celebrate her groundbreaking achievement, one viewer, identified as David, sent a complaint calling her moko “offensive and aggressive.” Kaipara shared his message on Instagram, revealing that she had finally decided to respond. “I never do that. I broke my own code and hit send,” she wrote, sharing her composed yet firm reply.
In her response, she corrected his spelling of moko and stated that his remarks reflected “cultural ignorance and bias.” She added, “Moko and people with them are not threatening nor do they deserve such prejudice.”
Kaipara later told the New Zealand Herald that while trolls exist, most feedback is positive. Her poised reaction serves as a reminder of the strength found in cultural pride and the importance of representation for Māori people everywhere.
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