When online trolls tried to bring down TV presenter Oriini Kaipara over her traditional Māori tattoo, she responded with nothing but class and confidence.
Oriini Kaipara, a 41-year-old trailblazer, made history as the first person to deliver primetime news in New Zealand while proudly wearing the moko kauae—a sacred face tattoo deeply rooted in Māori culture. The moko kauae, traditionally inked on a woman’s lips and chin, symbolizes heritage, leadership, and strong family ties in Māori tradition.
While her groundbreaking role has earned widespread praise, not everyone was thrilled. A viewer named David emailed Newshub, calling her moko “offensive and aggressive-looking” and labeling her use of the Māori language “incoherent.”
But Kaipara didn’t shy away from the criticism. Instead, she turned it into a teachable moment. Sharing the exchange on her Instagram story, she firmly but gracefully set the record straight. She corrected David’s misspelling of “moko,” explained its cultural significance, and reminded him that his discomfort stemmed from ignorance, not her appearance.
“We mean no harm or ill intent,” she wrote in her reply. “Neither do we deserve to be treated with such disregard.” Then, with a touch of sharp wit, she added, “Perhaps save your cultural ignorance and bias for a more appropriate time—ideally, the 1800s.”
Kaipara’s response struck a chord. It wasn’t just a rebuttal to one individual’s narrow-minded views but a bold assertion of cultural pride and identity.
Speaking to the New Zealand Herald later, she reflected on the bigger picture. “The fact that my existence triggers some people is testament to why we need more Māori advocates in key roles across every sector,” she said.
For Kaipara, the negative comments are just a blip in an overwhelmingly positive wave of support. She knows that her presence on screen—moko and all—challenges outdated ideas and inspires others to embrace who they are without fear.
Oriini Kaipara’s composed and fearless response serves as a reminder that cultural pride and resilience can shine even in the face of ignorance. Her actions encourage all of us to celebrate our identities unapologetically.
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