Traditional Samoan Tattoo Event a First at Tūhura Otago Museum

Next week, Tūhura Otago Museum will host a unique and historic event, becoming the first museum in the South to offer a live public demonstration of traditional Samoan tattooing. World-renowned Su'a Sulu'ape Peter, a tufuga tā tātāu (master tattooist), will be in Dunedin for over two weeks to practise and share this sacred art form — a rare opportunity given his usual two-year waiting list.

The event will officially open this Tuesday, followed by a public talk at 1pm, where Su'a Sulu'ape Peter will demonstrate the traditional tattooing practice live and share his deep cultural knowledge. This indigenous art form has endured through generations, resisting the forces of colonisation and Western religious ideologies that sought to suppress it.

Su'a Sulu'ape Peter is a direct descendant of Samoa's principal tattooing lineage and the eldest son of Su'a Sulu'ape Alaiva'a Petelo. With deep reverence and commitment, he continues to uphold and protect the sacred tradition entrusted to his family.

In his talk, Su'a Sulu'ape Peter will speak about the Pe'a and Malu – traditional Samoan tattoos for men and women – and will be joined by his Mea nā'itaua (wife of the tufuga tā tātāu) and au koso (essential assistants), who will share insights into their significant roles in the tattooing process.

During his time in Dunedin, Su'a Sulu'ape Peter will perform traditional tattooing for members of the community. The tattooing involves three assistants stretching the skin while the tattooing is carried out, with the presence of a woman always maintained. This is a deeply spiritual process that honours the recipient's ancestors and family, creating a powerful connection between past and present.

Tūhura Otago Museum's Pasifika Engagement Co-ordinator, Leota Meredith, said:

"The museum is honoured to host such a significant event. This is an incredible opportunity for our Pasifika communities and the wider public to witness and gain insight into this powerful, unique, and historic traditional art form."

Tautala Faletolu, Moananū Pesa Tili and Talai Naubalasi Directors of So'oula o Samoa played a key role in this event being possible and is known for their extensively work with pacific communities in churches, universities, and schools across Aotearoa, added:

Tautala says "This ceremony will be the first of its kind in a museum in the South Island. It's heartening to see Tūhura Otago Museum celebrating and highlighting such important cultural events. It sends a strong message about the value of indigenous knowledge and practices, and it brings our communities together in pride and connection."

This extraordinary event offers a rare and respectful window into the resilience, beauty, and cultural importance of Samoan tattooing.