New Zealand's national airline will soon allow staff to display traditional Maori tattoos, overturning a long-standing and controversial policy.
Air New Zealand chief Christopher Luxon on Monday announced the company 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 heavily in its branding.
"It's clear that there is growing acceptance of tattoos in New Zealand, particularly as a means of cultural and individual expression," Luxon said.
"I can guarantee that no one will be turned down because of their tattoo as long as it's not offensive or inappropriate."
Sydney Heremaia, 36, in March told local media he had applied for a job with the company only to be rejected because his markings, which included a ta moko and Samoan tatau, "did not comply" with uniform rules.
"Ta moko is an identity marker, not offensive 'body art', and I am pleased that Air New Zealand will finally be leaving these attitudes in the past," Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson said on Monday.
Australian Associated Press
