25 Maori Tattoos That’ll Make You Want to Get Inked ASAP
Maori tattoos are not just beautiful works of art; they’re deeply meaningful symbols rooted in rich cultural traditions. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next ink, these Maori-inspired designs might just be what you need. Let’s dive into 25 stunning Maori tattoo ideas that’ll have you itching to hit the tattoo parlor!
1. Get a Koru Spiral on Your Shoulder
The koru spiral represents new life and growth. It’s perfect for your shoulder, symbolizing a fresh start or new chapter in your life. Plus, it looks super cool when you wear tank tops!
2. Add a Hammerhead Shark to Your Forearm
Hammerhead sharks are symbols of strength and determination. Getting one inked on your forearm is a great way to show off your tough side while still looking awesome in short sleeves.
3. Tattoo a Tiki Face on Your Calf
Tiki faces are fun and full of personality. Putting one on your calf is like having a little guardian with you wherever you go. It’s sure to be a conversation starter at the beach!
4. Place a Turtle Design on Your Back
Turtles represent longevity and peace in Maori culture. A big turtle design on your back is perfect for those who want a statement piece that’s meaningful and eye-catching.
5. Ink a Maori-Style Armband
Armbands are classic and versatile. A Maori-inspired armband can be as simple or complex as you like, and it’ll look great whether you’re dressed up or down.
6. Get a Hei Matau Fish Hook on Your Wrist
The fish hook symbolizes prosperity and safe journeys. Putting it on your wrist is like wearing a good luck charm all the time. Plus, it’s small enough for those new to tattoos.
7. Add Maori Waves to Your Ankle
Wave patterns represent the ocean and life’s journey. An ankle tattoo of Maori waves is perfect for beach lovers and can easily be hidden with socks if needed.
8. Tattoo a Hei Tiki Figure on Your Chest
Hei Tiki figures are said to bring good luck. Getting one inked on your chest is like having a protective charm close to your heart. It’s a bold choice that shows off your cultural appreciation.
9. Place a Sun Design on Your Upper Arm
The sun represents life and energy in Maori culture. An upper arm sun tattoo is great for showing off in summer and can be easily covered up when needed.
10. Ink a Maori-Style Lizard on Your Leg
Lizards symbolize good fortune. A lizard design climbing up your leg is both unique and meaningful. It’s sure to turn heads when you wear shorts!
11. Get a Manaia Guardian on Your Neck
The Manaia is a spiritual guardian. A small Manaia on your neck is like having a protector with you always. It’s perfect for those who want a subtle yet meaningful tattoo.
12. Add Maori Patterns to Your Fingers
Finger tattoos are trendy and cool. Adding small Maori patterns to your fingers is a great way to dip your toes into the world of Maori tattoos without committing to a large piece.
13. Tattoo a Maori Mask on Your Thigh
Maori masks are powerful and eye-catching. A thigh tattoo of a Maori mask is perfect for those who want a larger piece that can still be easily covered up.
14. Place a Polynesian-Style Cross on Your Foot
A Polynesian-style cross on your foot is a great way to show your faith with a cultural twist. It’s small enough to be your first tattoo but meaningful enough to make an impact.
15. Ink a Maori-Inspired Manta Ray on Your Side
Manta rays represent grace and wisdom. A side tattoo of a manta ray is perfect for those who want a larger piece that flows with their body’s natural curves.
16. Get a Tribal Fern Design on Your Lower Back
Ferns represent new beginnings and hope. A lower back tattoo of tribal ferns is a great way to cover a larger area with a design that’s both meaningful and visually appealing.
17. Add a Maori-Style Owl to Your Shoulder Blade
Owls symbolize wisdom and knowledge. An owl tattoo on your shoulder blade is perfect for book lovers and night owls alike. It’s also easy to show off or cover up as needed.
18. Tattoo a Polynesian-Style Heart on Your Hip
A heart tattoo is always a classic. Adding Polynesian-style patterns to it gives it a unique twist. It’s perfect for those who want to show love for both their partner and Maori culture.
19. Place a Maori Sun and Moon on Your Forearm
The sun and moon represent balance and harmony. Getting them inked on your forearm is a great way to remind yourself to stay balanced in life.
20. Ink a Maori-Inspired Dolphin on Your Ankle
Dolphins represent playfulness and freedom. An ankle tattoo of a Maori-style dolphin is perfect for those who love the ocean and want a tattoo that makes them smile.
21. Get a Tribal-Style Mountain on Your Bicep
Mountains represent strength and perseverance. A bicep tattoo of a tribal-style mountain is great for outdoor enthusiasts and those who’ve overcome challenges.
22. Add a Maori-Style Compass to Your Wrist
A compass symbolizes guidance and direction. Getting one inked on your wrist is like having a constant reminder to stay on your path in life.
23. Tattoo a Polynesian-Style Shark Tooth on Your Calf
Shark teeth represent protection and strength. A calf tattoo of a Polynesian-style shark tooth is perfect for those who want to show off their tough side.
24. Place a Maori-Inspired Seashell on Your Collarbone
Seashells represent the ocean and its mysteries. A collarbone tattoo of a Maori-style seashell is delicate yet meaningful, perfect for beach lovers.
25. Ink a Tribal-Style Octopus on Your Ribs
Octopuses represent adaptability and intelligence. A rib tattoo of a tribal-style octopus is perfect for those who want a larger, more intricate piece that tells a story.
