by Te Huihui o Matariki Chi Huy Tran
Acknowledging the mythology of Ruamoko who’s deeply connected to tā moko and whakairo. He is associated with the earth and its patterns, which can be reflected in the intricate designs of moko and carvings The human figures are carvings with patterns like moko, and they all have mana lines (red wires) connected directly to Ruamoko laying deep underneath the Earth. It’s a reminder that keeping our stories and myths alive is super important because it shapes our identity and customs as Māori.