Oriini Kaipara, a trailblazing television presenter, has made headlines not just for her career accomplishments, but also for proudly wearing a moko kauae—a traditional Māori face tattoo—while hosting primetime news. Recently, Oriini addressed negative comments from a viewer who criticized her appearance, and she did so with elegance and pride, turning the incident into a powerful statement on cultural heritage and identity.

The debate around facial tattoos often divides opinions online. Some people believe tattoos should only be on the body, while others recognize and value their cultural significance. Oriini Kaipara, at 41 years old, is a living testament to the latter viewpoint. She made history when she joined New Zealand’s Newshub as a newsreader, becoming the first person to present a primetime TV news bulletin while wearing a moko kauae. This facial tattoo is much more than a decorative piece; it’s a profound symbol of her Māori heritage.

The Māori people are the indigenous Polynesian inhabitants of mainland New Zealand, and for Māori women, the moko kauae holds deep meaning. Traditionally inked on the lips and chin, these tattoos are powerful representations of family lineage, community leadership, and a person’s social status. For women like Oriini, a moko kauae also acknowledges their abilities, strength, and connection to their ancestry.

However, not everyone appreciates or understands the significance of this cultural expression. Recently, Oriini received a complaint from a viewer named David, who criticized her on-screen appearance due to her tattoo. Instead of letting this negativity get under her skin, Oriini addressed the criticism head-on. In a pointed yet polite email response, she made it clear that David’s complaint did not hold weight as it did not breach any broadcasting standards.

Adding a touch of humor, she corrected David’s spelling of “moko,” which he had mistakenly written as “moku.” Oriini’s response was firm but respectful, pointing out that his complaints were rooted in personal biases about how people should look on TV. She further emphasized that moko, along with the people who wear them, should not be targets of discrimination or prejudice, as they pose no harm to anyone.

“We mean no ill will, and I certainly do not deserve to be treated with such disrespect,” Oriini wrote in her reply. “Please stop sending these complaints and try to educate yourself beyond the outdated thinking of the 1800s.”

Despite this harsh criticism, Oriini remains unfazed. She acknowledges that while there are a few negative voices, the overwhelming majority of feedback she receives is positive. In an interview with the New Zealand Herald, she discussed the broader impact of her role on television. She highlighted the importance of having more Māori representation across different sectors. For Oriini, the fact that her presence on TV triggers some individuals only emphasizes the need for increased visibility and diversity.

Oriini’s story is not just about defending herself against a critic. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience and pride that comes with embracing one’s cultural roots. By standing up to detractors, she is encouraging others to embrace their identity without shame. Her graceful response to negativity is an inspiring example of how to handle criticism with dignity, while also pushing for greater acceptance and understanding of cultural diversity.

The conversation around moko kauae is part of a larger discussion about identity, representation, and cultural acceptance. Oriini’s presence on a mainstream news platform is helping to normalize these tattoos, encouraging more people to recognize their cultural significance rather than dismissing them based on outdated standards of beauty or professionalism.

Her story resonates deeply with anyone who has ever faced discrimination or judgment for expressing their heritage. Oriini’s message is clear: it’s time to challenge prejudiced views and embrace diversity in all its forms. By sharing her journey, she’s empowering others to take pride in who they are and to never let ignorance dictate their choices.

What do you think about Oriini Kaipara’s story? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Let’s celebrate her strength and the message she’s sending about the importance of cultural pride in the face of adversity.