Pakeha Ta Moko: A History of the Europeans traditionally tattooed by Maori

(Paperback)

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Explore the hidden history of European men and women traditionally tattooed by Maori. In Pakeha Ta Moko, Trevor Bentley examines the extent and significance of Maori and Pakeha tattoo exchange both on ship and shore between the 1790s and 1840s. He uncovers the tattooing methods as well as the purpose and significance of the designs. Bentley examines why and how some captive Pakeha males were forced to receive facial tattoos while others voluntarily crossed cultures and submitted themselves to the ta moko ritual. Through in-depth research and interviews, Bentley explores this important part of early New Zealand history.

Author Bio

Trevor Bentley has a PhD in history in has had a long-standing interest in the interaction of Maori and Pakeha in pre-Treaty New Zealand and the Europeans who entered Maori tribal societies voluntarily and involuntarily. He has done significant research on New Zealand history pre-Treaty of Waitangi, and on "culture crossers". He has written four books on the subject: Pakeha Maori, Captured by Maori, Cannibal Jack and most recently Pakeha Slaves, Maori Masters. He is an adult education director for four Waikato colleges and is a member of the NZ Military History Society.