Oriini Kaipara, a trailblazing Māori woman and television presenter, is making waves—not just for her presence on primetime New Zealand TV, but for the impactful way she addressed online criticism of her traditional facial tattoo.
At 41, Oriini made history as the first primetime news anchor in the world to wear a moko kauae—a sacred Māori chin tattoo symbolizing heritage, leadership, and identity.
However, not everyone welcomed this achievement.
Culture and Criticism Collide
As a newsreader on Newshub, one of New Zealand’s leading networks, Oriini has gained admiration for her cultural pride and confidence. Yet, she received a harsh message from a viewer named “David,” who wrote:
“We strongly oppose the use of a Māori newsreader with a moku [sic] that looks offensive and aggressive. It’s not a good look. Additionally, she speaks in the Māori language, which we don’t understand. Please stop it immediately.”
Rather than dismiss the message, Oriini chose to respond with poise, intelligence, and dignity.
“Today I Had Enough”: Oriini’s Bold Reply
Taking to Instagram, Oriini shared a screenshot of the message and wrote:
“Today was the day I had enough. I finally responded, which is something I never do… I went against my own principles and clicked the send button.”
In her reply, she corrected the spelling of moko and calmly pointed out that her appearance was in no way a breach of broadcast standards.
“Your complaints seem to stem solely from personal bias and preference regarding how people should look on screen,” she stated.
“Moko and those who wear them should not be subjected to discrimination, harassment, or prejudice. We do not seek to cause harm or ill will, and I do not deserve to be treated with such disrespect.”
For the final word, she delivered a striking conclusion:
“Please stop your complaints and try to decolonize your mindset as if you were still living in the 1800s.”
Moko Kauae: A Sacred Cultural Identity
For those unfamiliar, moko kauae is more than just a tattoo. It is a spiritual and genealogical emblem for Māori women, symbolizing ancestral roots, leadership, social standing, and personal accomplishment.
Oriini’s moko represents resilience, cultural pride, and generational strength. By proudly displaying it on national television, she is empowering others—especially young Māori—to embrace their identity without fear.
The Power of Representation
Despite the negativity, Oriini says the vast majority of feedback she receives is overwhelmingly positive. Yet, she believes such incidents underscore the need for greater visibility.
“If my presence on screen unsettles some people, it only proves why increased Māori representation across all fields is so necessary,” she told the New Zealand Herald.
Her story has since gone viral, with thousands praising her courageous response and unwavering cultural pride.
Final Thoughts
Oriini Kaipara isn’t just delivering the news—she’s rewriting the narrative for indigenous representation in mainstream media. Her response to online hate was not just for her, but for every person who’s ever felt unseen or misunderstood.
👏 More power to you, Oriini.
💬 What do you think about Oriini’s response and her beautiful moko kauae? Tell us in the comments!
Also read: 20 Animals That Are the Most Devoted Mothers.
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