New Zealand Tattoo: In the Home of the Tattooist’s Art

Tattooing is in the blood in New Zealand, and styles worn with pride here in Aotearoa are appreciated worldwide by admirers of beautiful design. Tattooing is going through a renaissance also, with a blossoming of styles and wider acceptance of wearing ink.

Chris Hoult immersed himself in the Kiwi tattoo scene from for a year, and brought writer-musician Steve Forbes along for the ride. What they record in New Zealand Tattoo is the view from the studios of New Zealand now, with profiles of leading tattooists including Merv O’Connor, Gordon Hatfield, Monique Mataga and Te Rangitu Netana.

Combining stunning photography and snappy text, New Zealand Tattoo is a celebration of tattooing here in its three rich traditions: Ta Moko (Maori tattoo), Tatau (Pacific Islands tattoo) and Tattoo (European and Asian forms).

• Chris Hoult, Author

  Chris Hoult is a senior photographer known for his haunting landscapes and social documentary work in books such as Home Free (on New Zealand house-truckers) and Out West. A father of two resident in Northland, Chris is originally from Levin.

• Steve Forbes, Author

  Steve Forbes is a freelance journalist who is well known as a guitarist in bands including The Kingites. He lives in New Lynn with his partner and their young child.