Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Moko is a Māori cultural practice connected to identity, genealogy and ancestry. Through voices including Rob Ruha, Professor Mera Penehira, Tame Iti, Rangi Kipa and Gordon Toi, this documentary explores why moko is described as more than ink on the face.

The film traces stories about the origins of moko, including Mataora and Niwareka, Rarohenga, Ruaumoko and Tāne-mahuta. It also places moko within the wider Pacific, from Hawaii and Samoa to Aotearoa.

The documentary examines how colonisation, Christianity, law, the musket trade and the trade of moko mōkai contributed to the decline of moko, especially male facial moko.

It also looks at the survival and revival of moko kauae, the role of women, and the work of figures such as Tame Poata in carrying this taonga forward.

Documentary: Moko EP1 : Origins and Decline
Directed by: Jessica Sanderson
Production: Velvet Stone Media (2022)

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