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Meet Whitu: Sunset Tattoo's Tā Moko Artist
A couple of months ago, we welcomed Te Whitu Kahurangi Hotere to the Sunset Tattoo whānau, and it's about time we introduced him properly!
Whitu was born and raised in Manurewa, South Auckland. His path into tā moko didn't start with a tattoo machine, it started with wood. He's spent years learning under experienced kaiwhakairo (traditional Māori carvers), including Jay Rawiri Mason and Bobby Te Huia, alongside formal study at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. That grounding in whakairo — the knowledge, the research methods, the way patterns carry meaning — is something he's carried straight into his tattooing, just embedded in skin instead of wood.
Whitu specialises in tā moko and kirituhi, using traditional Māori patterns and motifs to tell stories of culture, ancestry, tribal affiliation, and personal journeys of self-discovery. He works with both Māori and tauiwi clients, and every piece he does carries that same intention — nothing is just decoration.
He's been immersed in his own mahi toi (art practice) for over 10 years now, with 5–6 years specifically in tattooing, including the last year working in a professional studio setting. All of that experience shows in the way he approaches each design — considered, researched, and deeply personal.
We're stoked to have him as part of the studio, and even more stoked to share what he's been creating since he got here. If you're interested in a tā moko or kirituhi piece with Whitu, get in touch with the studio to start the conversation!
Tiger Time with Gordy Evelyn
If you needed proof that traditional Japanese tigers never get old, look no further than this stack of work from Gordy Evelyn. We've been sitting on these photos for a while and they deserve their own moment, so here's a quick showcase of some of our favourite tiger tattoos made by Gordy.
There's something so satisfying about the classic Japanese tiger motif; the rope-like muscle definition, the wind-blown fur, the wide eyes and gnashing teeth. Gordy's take on it hits all of those traditional notes while still feeling fresh piece to piece, whether it's bold and colourful or held back in moodier black and grey.
If you're after a tiger of your own, get in touch with the studio to see what Gordy's got coming up.
Sunset Tattoo is the home of some of New Zealand’s most celebrated tattooists, and located on Karangahape Road (K Road). We specialise in timeless, professional tattoo styles such as Japanese, American/western traditional, fine line and black work. With a friendly team, a gorgeous studio and decades of knowledge we would love to help you with your next tattoo project. For more information, get in touch with us. Contact: info@sunsettattoo.co.nz
Snake Arm Sleeve by Horiyama
The snake in Japanese tattooing carries a lot of meaning; protection, transformation, good fortune. This one is rendered in the classic Irezumi palette: deep navy black, bold red underbelly, white wave crests, and gold lightning cutting through the background. The colour balance is what makes it work. Heavy black keeps it grounded, the red stops it from going flat, and the lightning adds movement without cluttering the composition.
The waves and storm elements are a natural pairing with a snake; water and serpents have a long association in Japanese mythology, and visually they give the piece a sense of the body moving through something rather than just sitting on skin.
The chest panel ties it all together, giving the snake a place to rest its head while the body continues the journey down the arm.
Sunset Tattoo is the home of some of New Zealand’s most celebrated tattooists, and located on Karangahape Road (K Road). We specialise in timeless, professional tattoo styles such as Japanese, American/western traditional, fine line and black work. With a friendly team, a gorgeous studio and decades of knowledge we would love to help you with your next tattoo project. For more information, get in touch with us. Contact: info@sunsettattoo.co.nz
Fine Line Moths and Butterflies by Veronica
Why do fine line butterflies and both just work? It’s all down to the detail which pairs perfectly with fine line tattooing. Fine veining, layered patterning, that soft fade between sections — and fine line tattooing handles all of that without ever feeling heavy or cluttered on the skin. Veronica's take leans into delicate, almost scientific-illustration-style line work, but keeps it soft and easy to wear day to day.
Looking through this set, a few different flavours come through:
Realistic wing detail. A handful of these look like they've been lifted straight out of a field guide; banded markings, spotted edges, proper vein structure. Lots to look at up close, but it never feels busy.
Florals mixed in. Some of the nicest ones here build half a wing out of flowers, blending the insect and the botanical into one piece. It's also a really natural way to personalise a butterfly, tuck a name or initials into the other wing and you've got something one-of-a-kind.
Moons and stars. A few designs go celestial, with a moon and scattered sparkles framing a cluster of butterflies mid-flight. These tend to suit bigger placements like the upper arm, where the design has room to spread out properly.
Moths, for something moodier. Moths bring a different energy to butterflies; more angular, more structured. Veronica's moth work uses fine dotwork and linework to build texture into the wings instead of leaning on shading, which keeps it sharp rather than soft.
If a butterfly or moth tattoo's been on your mind, fine line is a great way to get a lot of detail into a small, easy-to-wear piece. Get in touch with the studio and we'll sort out placement, sizing, and design with you.
Sunset Tattoo is the home of some of New Zealand’s most celebrated tattooists, and located on Karangahape Road (K Road). We specialise in timeless, professional tattoo styles such as Japanese, American/western traditional, fine line and black work. With a friendly team, a gorgeous studio and decades of knowledge we would love to help you with your next tattoo project. For more information, get in touch with us. Contact: info@sunsettattoo.co.nz
Fu Dog Arm Sleeve by TomTom
This Japanese arm sleeve combines traditional symbolism with bold, modern tattoo craftsmanship. Flowing from shoulder to wrist, the piece features a powerful fu dog surrounded by blooming peonies, wave patterns, and a striking red shrine gate.
The fu dog serves as the focal point of the sleeve, representing protection, strength, and resilience. Its fierce expression and detailed shading give the tattoo a strong sense of movement and energy. Surrounding the guardian figure are vibrant peonies, symbols of prosperity, beauty, and courage in Japanese art. The bright reds and greens create a strong contrast against the dark background and stone textures throughout the sleeve.
At the top of the composition, the red shrine gate adds spiritual symbolism and visual balance. Traditionally associated with sacred spaces and personal transformation, it helps anchor the entire design while drawing attention to the upper arm.
The background elements; flowing waves, smoke patterns, and textured shading, tie everything together seamlessly. The result is a bold and cohesive Japanese sleeve that balances power, elegance, and tradition in a timeless way.
Sunset Tattoo is the home of some of New Zealand’s most celebrated tattooists, and located on Karangahape Road (K Road). We specialise in timeless, professional tattoo styles such as Japanese, American/western traditional, fine line and black work. With a friendly team, a gorgeous studio and decades of knowledge we would love to help you with your next tattoo project. For more information, get in touch with us. Contact: info@sunsettattoo.co.nz