Air NZ to allow tatts

NEW Zealand’s national airline will soon allow staff to display traditional Maori tattoos, overturning a longstanding and controversial policy.

Air New Zealand chief Christopher Luxon yesterday said the carrier would drop its ban on visible tattoos from September to let employees wear ta moko (Maori tattoos) and other non-offensive ink that could be seen while in uniform.

Ta moko holds a significant place in Maori culture and Air NZ faced an outcry this year after turning down staff over tattoos while using traditional Maori motifs in its branding.