Kanohi Kitea - 27 Sep
It's at a time in his life when he was just about to return home to Whakatane, when his father passed away. The move back, coupled with his father's death and other personal incidents, prompted Joe to get his face tattooed with a moko. Joe never had the courage to ask his father if he would approve, now it's too late to find out.
Before even starting, Joe had lengthy dialogue with those close
to him, like wife, kids and boss, for their immediate reaction.
Some were of surprise, some of astonishment and some "over my dead
body!"
He thought many times to himself, of the outcome if he was to wear
a moko for the rest of his life. Even while flying in an
airplane Joe recorded his thoughts; step by step toward the journey
of one day wearing a moko. Due to changing circumstances, Joe
has reached a point in his life where he feels that he is ready,
and deserved of wearing a moko.
He has already consulted Tohunga Taa Moko, Derek Lardelli, who has accepted his tono to apply Joe's moko. A lot of effort went in to discussing the tauira or pattern of his moko. Joe provided information, but in the end, it is the tohunga who will determine the final outcome.
The day draws near when Joe and his whanau will meet with Derek
Lardelli, for a week together. At the conclusion Joe
Harawira's life will be changed forever, for he will be a wearer of
the Maori moko.
Joe will not know the design until he looks in the mirror for the
first time. Guaranteed to be an emotional time. Taiwhakaea
Marae, week of August 15, the days have come for Joe to receive his
moko.
