Tattoos
New Zealand Tattoos
Your guide to getting a tattoo in New Zealand. We give you the lowdown on where to get tattooed, how to make sure you stay safe, designs for tattoos and taking care of your new ink.
Tattoos are mainstream, well almost. A tattoo certainly doesn't come with a stigma attached, as it used to do just a generation ago. Today, guys and gals from all walks of life, from every social class and race, are having images and words tattooed onto their skin. New Zealand tattoo designs can be 100% unique - created by the wearer or by a tattoo artist - and incorporate Maori designs, drawings from photographs, words and pretty much anything you can imagine.
But what are the pitfalls for the un-inked? Here are the most frequently asked questions for those considering joining the tattoo club:
Is it safe to get a tattoo?
Yes, but make sure you go to a reputable tattoo artist who follows all the hygiene requirements. Ask as many questions as you like about his or her hygiene practices. Check that:
- The premises are clean and well maintained
- A new needle is used for each client
- Fresh disposable gloves are worn each time
Visit several New Zealand tattoo studios before making your decision: remember to take your time, talk with the tattoo artist about their practice and level of experience, and ask to view their portfolio.
Does it hurt?
Well, yes, but it's not that bad. Everyone has a different pain threshold, but generally, getting a tattoo done doesn't hurt as much as you might think. The pain involved will also depend where on your body you choose to get inked. Generally, the more bone or muscle in the area, the greater the pain, and the more well-padded the area, the less pain you will experience.
How much will it cost?
The cost of a tattoo in New Zealand depends on the size and complexity of the design you have chosen, but also on the tattoo artist's level of experience and ability. It is well worth paying for quality – a cheap tattoo will be with you for life.
Where should I get my tattoo?
This choice, along with the decision about your tattoo design, is entirely up to you. Remember to bear in mind your social and work commitments – you may want to get your tattoo in a place that is easily covered with clothing when needed.
When should I get a tattoo?
In New Zealand, it's legal to get a tattoo from the age of 16, although many tattooists require your parents' consent if you're under 18 years of age. Remember too, it's best to be in good health when you get a tattoo, as your body will need a full-strength immune system to help in the healing process.
What picture or symbol should I get done?
This is a matter of personal choice. Many choose from available designs, but for more personal design, choose two or three pictures and ask your tattoo artist to create a custom design that's unique. You're a one-off, so why shouldn't your tattoo be uniquely tailored to you? You might want to think about your heritage, the things you love, the people who mean a lot to you, writers whose work you like, or artists you admire. If you've got a creative streak, you might even want to create your own design. Your tattoo is an expression of your own personal style, so don't let others tell you what to get done! Remember, though, what you have tattooed on your body will influence the impression people have of who you are. If you're concerned about your image, consider this when choosing your design.
What about uniquely New Zealand tattoo designs?
There are many distinctively NZ tattoo designs: if you're a Kiwi doing your OE, you might be one of the many New Zealanders etched with silver ferns, maps of New Zealand, kiwi or New Zealand flags. There are also many beautiful and striking Maori tattoo designs, both traditional and contemporary. Moko, or Maori tattoo, was originally unique to an individual and showed the ancestry of the wearer. Today, Maori designs include elements of old and new in geometric and curvilinear patterns.
What's the best type of tattoo aftercare?
Your freshly-inked tattoo will need some tender care for at least one week following your tattoo session. It's important to take good care of your tattoo in order to avoid infection.
- Immediately afterwards, the tattoo artist should cover your tattoo with a bandage, to prevent it from being exposed to airborne bacteria. Leave this on for at least three hours, or preferably overnight.
- Wash and treat your tattoo after removing the bandage, using antibacterial soap and warm water. Do not use facecloth or anything abrasive. Pat (don't rub) the area dry with a clean towel.
- Apply an antibacterial ointment (of a high quality).
- Continue this care procedure twice daily, for at least two or three days.
After several days, the skin may start to scab and peel. Too much scabbing points to a poor quality tattoo, but a little bit of scabbing is normal. However, don't pick or scratch at your tattoo: leave it to heal. Always be sure to protect your tattoo from the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet light will fade or damage a tattoo, so when going out in the sun use an SPF30 sunblock.
There are many people wandering the streets sporting tattoos that are as varied as their owners. You too can be initiated into the tattoo club, but think hard before you do. Your tattoo will be with you for life (unless you have it removed at great expense), so choose wisely!
Looking for more information? Find NZ tattoos in the NZS.com directory.
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Arts images from Flickr: Tattooist, Maori Carving and Wellington Sculpture.
