Polynesian Tattoos - Styles, Symbols and Meanings

Polynesian Tattoo is a unique style that has great impact on modern tattoo design. For example, tribal design uses Polynesian symbols and style to make it look masculine or exotic. However, for indigenous Polynesians, the significance is beyond body art to get a tattoo on the body. Tattooing has always been a sacred process in Polynesian culture.

The Polynesian Triangle

Polynesia is a subregion of Oceania, comprising of over 10,000 islands which is generally defined as the Polynesian Triangle. Geographically, the Polynesian Triangle is drawn by connecting the points of Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island. The other main islands within the Polynesian Triangle include Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti and the Cook Islands.

The Polynesian Triangle is a geographical region of the Pacific Ocean with Hawaii (1), New Zealand (2) and Easter Island (3) at its corners. At the center is Tahiti (5), with Samoa (4) to the west.

Polynesian Tattoo Styles

Despite many languages, the people who inhabit in different Polynesian islands share many similar traits in culture and beliefs. Tattoo is certainly one of them. However, the style of tattooing varies from island to island, which are usually named after the names of islands or people.

Samoan tattoo – a tattoo style indigenous to Samoa island. The Samoan tattoo for men is called pe’a, which consists of intricate geometrical patterns covering areas from waist to knees. The Samoan tattoo for women is called malu that covers the legs from the upper thighs to the knees.
Hawaiian tattoo – the ancient tattoo art also known as Kakau, is sacred to the Hawaiian people, mainly used to represent one’s social status.
Maori tattoo – aka Ta Moko, is a form of facial tattoo art practiced by Maori people in New Zealand. Maori tattoos feature intricate spiral or round patterns and symbols with unique meanings. It is a way to tell stories about their owners, reflecting social rank, power and status.
Tahitian tattoos – an indigenous tattoo style to Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia. The origin of the English word ‘tattoo’ actually came from the Tahitian word ‘tatau’. In ancient Tahitian culture, there were strict codes governing the use of tattooing for it represented one’s e social standing.
Marquesan tattoo – aka patutiki, a traditional tattoo design originating from Marquesas Islands. Similar to Maori tattoos, Marquesan tattoos are rich in spiral or rounded elements and share a more figurative style.

Placement of Polynesian tattoos

Despite the distance of the islands, traditional Polynesian tattoos display proximal visual art effect, which embody the spiritual power, lineage or deeds for the wearers. Besides the motifs or symbols, the placement plays role in expressing their meanings.

Head

The head connects to Rangi which means sky. In Maori and other Polynesian mythology, Rangi was a god of the sky, husband of the earth goddess Papa. A tattoo on this placement reminds people of spirituality, knowledge and wisdom.

One of typical head tattoos is Maori facial tattoo or ta moko. Each moko contains ancestral tribal messages specific to the wearer. That’s why copying a facial tattoo is considered greatly offensive.

Higher trunk

The area is from the navel onto the chest, a place between Rangi and Papa, the earth goddess who gave birth to all things by making love to the sky.

Belly

The belly or stomach, is associated to Mana, a supernatural power in Polynesian peoples may exist in person or inanimate objects.

Arms and shoulders

Many people are amazed by the tribal tattoos on this body part. Shoulders and arms are the best places for the masculine designs that represent strength and bravery.

Thigh

The thigh tattoos are of great sentimental value for women. In Samoan culture, it was an important rite of passage for young Samoan women to get tattoo from the upper thighs to the knees. This placement is particularly related to strength and marriage. For young women, it used to be the sole outfit for daughter of the chief.

Leg

In Polynesian tattoos designs, calf, the front of lower leg and the full lower leg are the popular placements for leg tattoos.

Polynesian Tattoo Symbols and their meanings

Polynesian body art is strongly linked to their environment. A great number of symbols from their daily lives are employed as motifs in Polynesian tattoo designs. Each of them takes on a significance relating to its inner nature and embodies that meaning for the wearer. Here is the collection of examples and their meanings.

Bird

Birds are a common symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing freedom, travel, and spiritual guidance. They embody strength, wisdom, and the connection between the earth and the sky.

Birds Net

The birds net motif signifies unity and community, as it illustrates the connection of people and their shared goals. It emphasizes teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration.

Boar

In Polynesian culture, the boar symbolizes courage, ferocity, and strength. It is often used in tattoos to represent a warrior spirit and the power to face challenges head-on.

Braid and Cord

Braids and cords in Polynesian art represent unbreakable bonds, such as those between family members or close friends. They signify the strength that comes from unity and togetherness.

Centipede

In Polynesian tattoos, the centipede symbolizes power, agility, and determination. You can find centipedes across Polynesian islands as creatures with an aggressive nature, making them ideal symbols for fighting and warriors. The centipede represents the god of long time since in Samoan tattoos. Often, people also use it to depict a warrior’s resilience and unyielding spirit.

Coconut

Coconuts hold great importance in Polynesian culture, signifying sustenance, nourishment, and life. They symbolize abundance, prosperity, and the nurturing aspects of nature. Coconut palms are a gift to islanders for they give islanders fibers, fruit, wood, bowls, and prosperity.

Dolphin

Dolphins are revered in Polynesian culture for their intelligence, playfulness, and grace. They symbolize harmony, protection, and the bond between humans and the ocean.

Enata

Enata is a human figure in Polynesian tattoos, representing ancestors, family, and community. They can be incorporated into a tattoo to represent people and their relationships – friends, family, and dear ones. They can be used to represent defeated enemies when placed upside down.

Fish

Fish provided the main source of food to Polynesian people, and they held significant importance both nutritiously and spiritually. In Maori mythology, the culture hero Maui caught a giant fish using a fishhook, which would become the North Island of New Zealand. Fish are considered emblems of nature that symbolize wealth, plenty, prosperity, and life. And they also signify the connection between humans and the sea, as well as the cycle of life.

Fish Scales

Fish scales represent protection, strength, and adaptability in Polynesian tattoos. They embody the resilience and determination of those who face adversity.

Flying Foxes

Flying foxes symbolize communication, agility, and adaptability in Polynesian tattoos. They represent the ability to navigate through life’s challenges with ease and grace.

Frigate Bird

The frigate bird is a symbol of power, freedom, and navigation in Polynesian tattoos. It embodies the connection between the earth and the sky, and the ability to soar above challenges.

Frog

Frogs are a symbol of transformation, renewal, and the cycle of life in Polynesian culture. They represent adaptability and the power to overcome obstacles and embrace change.

Gecko

Lizards and geckos are important and significant to Polynesian myths and culture. The Samoans revered several gods in lizard form. Maori culture views lizards as a potential bad omen, representing darkness and death. However, they also frequently consider them as protectors and guardians. Sometimes, the lizard could resemble enata symbol if portrayed in square shapes.

The gecko is a prevalent Polynesian tattoo symbol, revered for its supernatural powers and association with protection. These small, agile creatures are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Hammerhead Shark

The hammerhead shark is a symbol of power, ferocity, and determination in Polynesian tattoos. It is often used to represent a warrior’s unyielding spirit and the ability to overcome adversity. Hammerhead shark designs are typically bold and dynamic, showcasing the unique shape of the shark’s head and its powerful presence in the ocean.

Hibiscus

The hibiscus flower is a popular icon in Polynesian tattoos, symbolizing beauty, femininity, and the power of love. Its delicate petals and vibrant colors make for eye-catching designs that celebrate life and the natural world. The hibiscus often represents the strength and resilience of women, as well as the deep connections that bind people together.

Honu Shell

The honu shell, or turtle shell, is a symbol of protection, wisdom, and the spiritual connection between humans and the natural world in Polynesian tattoos. Its intricate patterns and curved lines create visually striking designs that highlight the strength and resilience of the sea turtle as it navigates the vast ocean.

Ipu

The ipu, or gourd, is a significant symbol in Polynesian culture, representing fertility, abundance, and the nurturing aspects of nature. In tattoos, the ipu is often depicted with intricate patterns and designs that emphasize its connection to life and the earth. The ipu serves as a reminder of the bountiful gifts provided by the natural world and the importance of respecting and preserving these resources.

Kena

The Polynesian symbol Kena represents a Marquesan mythological hero, often associated with warriors. The Kena motif symbolizes strength, courage, tenacity, and wit, which are qualities that led Kena to become a revered hero in Marquesan culture.

Koru

The koru, or unfurling fern frond, is a symbol of growth, renewal, and the cycle of life in Polynesian tattoos. It represents the potential for new beginnings and the power of transformation. Koru designs are characterized by their graceful, spiraling lines and the sense of movement they evoke, embodying the unfolding nature of life and the importance of embracing change.

Manaia

The Manaia, a mythological creature in Polynesian culture, represents protection, guidance, and the balance between the spiritual and physical worlds. Often depicted as a bird-headed figure, the Manaia is a powerful guardian that watches over and protects its wearer. Tattoo designs featuring the Manaia combine intricate patterns and the creature’s distinctive form to evoke a sense of protection and spiritual balance.

Manta Ray

Manta rays are revered symbols in Polynesian tattoos, representing grace, wisdom, and the connection between the ocean and the sky. Their elegant movements and unique shape inspire designs that celebrate the harmony and balance of nature. Manta ray tattoos serve as a reminder of the beauty and power of the natural world and our responsibility to protect it.

Marquesan Cross

The Marquesan Cross is a meaningful symbol in Polynesian tattoos that represents the balance of elements, harmony, and unity. Its symmetrical design, featuring a central square and four interlocking elements, embodies the interconnectedness of all things. Tattoos featuring the Marquesan Cross serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in all aspects of life.

Maui’s Fishhook

Maui’s fishhook is a prominent symbol in Polynesian mythology, representing strength, prosperity, and good luck. This bone-like weapon was created by the gods and given to Maui when they turned him into a demigod.

In Hawaiian mythology, Maui used the fishhook to create Hawaii’s islands by tricking his brothers into thinking he had caught a big fish. As they paddled with all their might, the islands rose from the ocean floor behind them. Another Hawaiian tradition tells of Maui attempting to fish up the god of fish, Pimoe, but failing due to the irresistible beauty of a water-goddess who appeared during the expedition.

Mere

The mere, a traditional Polynesian weapon, symbolizes authority, strength, and the warrior spirit in tattoos. Its distinctive shape, characterized by a flat, broad blade, inspires designs that pay tribute to the power and resilience of the Polynesian people. Mere-themed tattoos remind the wearer of their inner strength and the courage needed to face life’s challenges.

Moray Eel

The moray eel is a symbol of adaptability, transformation, and the ability to overcome obstacles in Polynesian tattoos. Its sinuous form and striking patterns inspire designs that celebrate the eel’s ability to navigate through challenging environments. Moray eel tattoos serve as a reminder of the importance of embracing change and the power to overcome adversity.

Ocean

The ocean is a central element in Polynesian culture and tattoos, symbolizing vastness, mystery, and the connection between humans and the natural world. Ocean-inspired designs often incorporate flowing lines and intricate patterns that evoke the movement of water. Ocean-themed tattoos serve as a reminder of the power and beauty of nature and our responsibility to protect it.

Octopus

The octopus is a revered symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing intelligence, adaptability, and the ability to navigatecomplex situations. Its distinctive form, with its multiple arms and unique patterns, inspires designs that celebrate the octopus’s remarkable qualities. Octopus-themed tattoos remind the wearer of the importance of using intellect and resourcefulness to overcome challenges and adapt to ever-changing circumstances.

Palm Tree

The palm tree is a symbol of resilience, strength, and the spirit of paradise in Polynesian tattoos. Its ability to withstand harsh conditions and still thrive reflects the power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining a strong foundation. Palm tree designs often feature the tree’s distinctive shape, evoking a sense of peace and tranquility while reminding the wearer of their inner strength.

Pito

The pito, or navel, is a powerful symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing the connection between generations, the cycle of life, and our ties to the earth. It symbolizes the point of origin from which life emerges and the bonds that unite people across time and distance. Pito designs often incorporate intricate patterns and motifs that emphasize the importance of honoring our roots and maintaining a strong connection with our ancestors.

Puawananga Flower

Puawānanga flower tattoos are deeply rooted in Māori culture and symbolism, representing knowledge, education, and the beginning of spring. As the clematis flower, Puawānanga signifies human efforts to pursue knowledge and education. These tattoos are popular among individuals seeking to celebrate their connection to Māori culture and New Zealand, as they embody bravery, heroism, and safe travels over water.

Seagull

The seagull is a significant symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing freedom, adaptability, and the ability to soar above challenges. As creatures of both land and sky, seagulls embody the balance between the physical and spiritual realms. Tattoo designs inspired by the seagull often depict its soaring form, reminding the wearer of their own potential for growth and the importance of embracing change with resilience and grace.

Seahorse

Seahorses, with their unique shape and fascinating behaviors, symbolize creativity, patience, and the power of nurturing in Polynesian tattoos. Known for their monogamous relationships and the male’s unique role in carrying and birthing their young, seahorses represent a balance of nurturing energies. Seahorse-themed tattoos often feature the creature’s distinctive form and intricate patterns, inspiring the wearer to cultivate patience and embrace their creative spirit.

Shark

In Polynesian waters, sharks strike fear into humans. However, it plays special role in mythology. In Maori culture, sharks are considered as guardian spirits. In Hawaiian mythology, aumakua, a family god often manifested as shark. So that’s why the appearance of the shark is considered as a sign of omen.

Sharks are revered in Polynesian culture as symbols of power, protection, and fearlessness. Their impressive strength and keen senses inspire designs that celebrate the shark’s prowess and dominance in the ocean. Shark tattoos serve as a reminder to confront life’s challenges with courage and determination, drawing from the shark’s fierce energy.

Spearhead

The spearhead is a powerful symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing courage, strength, and the warrior spirit. As the sharp, cutting edge of a spear, the spearhead embodies the focused energy required to pierce through challenges and achieve one’s goals. Tattoos featuring spearheads often include intricate patterns and designs that emphasize the strength and determination of the wearer.

Shark Teeth

Shark teeth, or “niho mano” in Polynesian, are powerful symbols of protection, strength, and ferocity in tattoos. Often depicted as a series of interlocking triangles, shark teeth designs pay tribute to the power and resilience of the shark. Tattoos featuring shark teeth encourage the wearer to face adversity with bravery and to draw strength from the fierce energy of these formidable creatures.

Sun

In Polynesian tattoos, the sun symbolizes life, energy, and the power of renewal. Its life-giving light and warmth inspire designs that celebrate the sun’s vital role in sustaining all living things. Tattoos featuring the sun serve as a reminder of the importance of embracing each new day as an opportunity for growth, transformation, and the pursuit of one’s passions. The rise and fall of the sun also embodies the eternal nature of life.

Sun and Moon

The sun and moon represent the balance of opposing forces, unity, and the interconnectedness of all things in Polynesian tattoos. As symbols of light and darkness, day and night, the sun and moon embody the harmony that exists within the natural world. Tattoo designs featuring the sun and moon often incorporate their distinct shapes and patterns, reminding the wearerof the importance of maintaining balance in their life and the power that comes from embracing the unity of opposing forces.

Taniwha

The Taniwha is a mythological creature in Polynesian culture, symbolizing protection, guardianship, and the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds. Often depicted as a powerful, serpentine being, the Taniwha is a revered guardian that watches over and protects its people. Tattoo designs featuring the Taniwha combine intricate patterns and the creature’s distinctive form, evoking a sense of protection and spiritual guidance.

Te ha

Te ha, or “the breath of life,” is a powerful symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing vitality, energy, and the spiritual force that connects all living things. The concept of Te ha emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and harmony within oneself and with the world around us. Tattoo designs inspired by Te ha often feature flowing lines and patterns that evoke the movement of energy, serving as a reminder of the vital force that sustains and connects us all.

Ti Leaves

Ti leaves hold special significance in Polynesian culture and tattoos, symbolizing protection, purification, and the bond between the physical and spiritual realms. Traditionally used in rituals and ceremonies, ti leaves are believed to possess healing and protective qualities. Tattoo designs featuring ti leaves often incorporate their elongated, slender shape, serving as a reminder for the wearer to seek balance and connection in their daily lives while embracing the protective energies of these sacred plants.

Tiare

The Tiare flower, a beautiful and fragrant blossom native to the South Pacific, symbolizes love, purity, and the beauty of Polynesian culture in tattoos. As a revered symbol of Polynesian hospitality, the Tiare flower embodies warmth and generosity. Tattoo designs inspired by the Tiare flower frequently showcase its delicate petals and elegant form, reminding the wearer to embrace and share the beauty and love that surrounds them.

Tiki

The Tiki refers to carved human figures in Polynesian cultures, which could be associated with the myth of Tiki, the first man created by Tane. Tiki figures are prominent symbols in Polynesian tattoos, representing protection, fertility, and the connection to ancestral spirits. Often depicted as stylized human figures with large, expressive features, Tiki tattoos pay homage to the powerful and protective guardian spirits of Polynesian mythology.

Twist

In Polynesian tattoos, the twist or “heke” symbolizes unity, eternal love, and interconnectedness. It often appears as two intertwined strands, representing an unbreakable bond between individuals or inner harmony. Twist motif tattoos remind wearers of the strength in unity and the importance of balance and connection in life.

Whale

In Polynesian tattoos, whales symbolize wisdom, strength, and the human-nature connection. They are majestic, awe-inspiring ocean creatures known for their size, power, and complex songs. These designs celebrate the unique beauty of whales and the mysteries of the deep. Whale tattoos remind wearers of the deep connection among all living beings. They also encourage seeking wisdom and strength from nature.