Customer testimonials and reviews can be found on our website, social media channels, or Google reviews.

Healing takes about a month, with the first two weeks being critical. Avoid sun exposure, swimming, saunas, and high-intensity workouts during this period. 1. After your tattoo is completed, Zealand Tattoo will apply a second-skin covering that stays on for 2-3 days. Its waterproof but must be removed immediately if plasma or ink leaks. 2. Clean the tattoo gently with warm soapy water, pat dry, and apply an aftercare cream like Bepanthen twice daily. 3. Do not pick or scratch the tattoo if it feels itchy; apply lotion instead. Avoid over-moisturising.

Pricing depends on the size, detail, and placement of your tattoo. Large, intricate designs cost more than smaller tattoos. Remember, your tattoo is a lifelong investment, so quality matters - you do get what you pay for in tattoos. You are more than welcome to come in with your ideas or send example images via email so we can discuss pricing with you.

If you cancel, reschedule, or fail to show up for a booked tattoo appointment (secured with a deposit or pre-payment), the deposit is non-refundable. However, you can retain an in-store credit to use at Zealand Tattoo at a future date that suits you. Alternatively, the credit can be transferred to a friend or family member as a gift voucher, tattoo credit, or applied toward an online design. For more details, please get in touch.

Tattooing involves some discomfort, but most people describe the sensation as a mild scratching or irritation. The pain varies depending on your personal pain threshold and the tattoos placement. If you need a break during your session, just let us know.

Yes, we can help you design a respectful and authentic Maori tattoo that aligns with traditional styles. If you are considering a Maori design, please speak with our team, who specialise in the cultural significance and artistry of Maori tattoos.

A tattoo design is something that is on your body forever, so make sure your tattoo is unique and meaningful to you. Our studio manager and artists can help you develop any idea you have and plan the tattoo design together to ensure it reflects your personality and individuality. Once you have a tattoo design in mind, bring some reference pictures into our studio to collaborate with our team. If you dont have any ideas yet, drop by our studio, and well guide you in creating something special.

Yes! If you want a design only to take to your local artist, we can provide this service for you. Pricing will depend on the complexity of the design, and payment must be made before any artwork is released to protect our time and intellectual property.

Please contact the studio as soon as possible to reschedule. Our cancellation policy is available on our website.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.

While we welcome support, studio space can be limited. Please check with your artist or the studio beforehand.

Absolutely! Your artist will work with you to ensure you're happy with the stencil placement and size before proceeding with the tattoo.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially for larger pieces or popular artists. Contact us to discuss your timeline and desired appointment date.

The duration varies depending on the size, complexity, and style of your tattoo. Your artist will provide an estimate during your consultation.

Get a good night's sleep, eat a proper meal, and stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol or aspirin for 24 hours before your appointment.

We advise against taking aspirin or ibuprofen as they can thin the blood. If you have concerns about pain, consult your doctor.

We encourage active collaboration throughout the design process. We'll work closely with you to ensure the final design meets your expectations.

You can book a consultation online or contact us directly to schedule a time to discuss your custom tattoo ideas with one of our artists.

Our experienced artists can help you explore different styles and ideas to find the perfect tattoo that reflects your vision.

Yes, we can create custom tattoos that blend different styles, such as Maori/Japanese fusion or geometric with realistic elements.

Absolutely! Our artists can work with you to create a custom ornamental tattoo that reflects your unique style and preferences.

While black and grey are common, ornamental tattoos can also incorporate color for added vibrancy and dimension.

Yes, you're welcome to bring your own design or ideas. We'll collaborate with you to refine it and ensure it's suitable for tattooing.

Yes, you can find examples of ornamental tattoos in our gallery, categorised by style and artist.

Large-scale Japanese tattoos often require multiple sessions, sometimes spanning several months or even years, to complete.

The cost of a Japanese sleeve tattoo varies depending on the size, detail, and colour. It's best to book a consultation for a personalised quote.

Traditional Japanese tattoos (irezumi) often feature large-scale designs with bold colours and mythical creatures. Modern Japanese tattoos may incorporate contemporary elements or focus on specific motifs.

Yes, we offer consultations to discuss your ideas, explore design options, and create a custom Japanese tattoo that reflects your vision.

Ornamental tattoos are inspired by decorative art styles like art nouveau and art deco, featuring intricate patterns, flowing lines, and elegant details.

Popular symbols include dragons, koi fish, tigers, cherry blossoms, and peonies, each with its own unique meaning and symbolism.

Ornamental tattoos can be placed on various body parts, but popular locations include the arms, back, chest, and legs.

Ta Moko is the traditional Māori art of tattooing, with a rich history and deep cultural significance.

Yes, you can bring your own design, but we encourage you to collaborate with our artists to ensure it's culturally appropriate and tailored to your body.

Traditionally, Tā moko was applied using hand tools (uhi) and natural pigments. Today, many artists use modern tattoo machines, but the artistry and cultural significance remain central to the process.

The cost of a Tā moko varies depending on the size, complexity, and placement of the design. It's best to book a consultation with one of our artists to discuss your specific vision and receive a personalised quote.

Proper aftercare is essential for a Tā moko to heal properly and retain its vibrancy. We'll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure your tattoo stays beautiful for years to come.

Tā moko tells a story, it represents your whakapapa (genealogy), your connections, and your identity. It is a powerful symbol of your heritage and your place in the world.

Polynesian tattoo symbols represent various aspects of life, including ancestry, nature, spirituality, and personal achievements. Our artists can help you choose symbols that resonate with your story.

The time required for a Polynesian tattoo depends on the size, complexity, and placement of the design. It can range from a few hours to multiple sessions.

While traditional Polynesian tattoos were applied by hand, today, most artists use modern tattoo machines for precision and efficiency.

Polynesian tattooing encompasses a variety of styles from different islands, including Marquesan, Samoan, Tahitian, and Maori. Each style has unique characteristics and symbolism.

Yes, visit our website to explore galleries of our previous work and find inspiration.

Yes! Our artists' portfolios are available for viewing at our website https://www.zealandtattoo.co.nz/galleries/

Tattoos may fade over time, especially lighter colours. We offer touch-up services to refresh your tattoo or work over it with a new design.

Before we begin tattooing, we have a thorough consultation process to ensure you're completely happy with the design. Artists may freehand the design directly onto your body or use transfers, giving you a chance to adjust the placement and design before the ink is applied. Only when you're 100% satisfied do we proceed.

1. Best Equipment We use top-quality tattoo machines, needles, and inks to ensure hygiene, safety, and precision. 2. Experience and specialisation in a wide range of tattoo styles and genres. 3. 2-Year Guarantee: If your tattoo fades or needs a touch-up within two years, we will fix it for you free of charge, even if it was damaged due to an accident.

Our team consists of experienced tattoo artists with many years in the industry, delivering high-quality tattoos to satisfied clients.

Yes, you can get a tattoo while breastfeeding. However, it's essential to ensure that the tattoo studio adheres to strict hygiene practices to minimise the risk of infection. Let your artist know that you're breastfeeding, and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Avoid areas near the chest to prevent any irritation or discomfort during nursing.

While we don't offer tattoo removal services, we can provide cover-up solutions or enhancements to transform an unwanted tattoo into something new.

Yes. Zealand Tattoo follows strict hygiene and sterilisation protocols. Non-disposable tools are sterilised using vacuum and steam techniques and opened in front of customers. Disposable needles and materials are discarded in medical-grade sharps bins.

While it is possible to get a tattoo while pregnant, we recommend avoiding areas such as the lower back or stomach, where vibrations and noise may affect your unborn child.

If you are unwell, please reschedule your appointment. Your body needs to be in good health to heal effectively after getting a tattoo.

1. Visit or contact our studio to discuss your ideas with our studio manager and, if needed, an artist. 2. Agree on a date and time, and leave a deposit (between \$100-\$250) to confirm your booking. 3. Consultation and designing will be on the day for small to medium tattoos. For large tattoos, consultations and pre-designing may be arranged on a separate day. 4. Application of your tattoo (tattoo sitting). 5. If needed, a second sitting/touch-up session will be scheduled.

If you enjoy swimming or spending a lot of time in the sun, consider getting your tattoo in winter. This will help avoid issues with chlorine pools and sun exposure while your tattoo heals.

1. Email us your design ideas and attach example images. 2. We will review your ideas, confirm the details (size, color), and discuss estimate pricing. A deposit (between \$100-\$250) will lock in your consultation and booking. 3. The artist will prepare the artwork or email you a concept, depending on your needs. Substantial separate deposits are required for completed designs to be emailed if requested before the tattoo appointment. 4. Consultation and finalisation of design on the day of the appointment, followed by the tattoo sitting. 5. Schedule a second sitting/touch-up session if needed.

The time required to complete your tattoo depends on its size, detail, and complexity. Smaller tattoos may take an hour or two, while larger or more intricate designs could require a day or multiple sessions.

The type of tattoo design and its placement are entirely up to you and your comfort level. Keep in mind that certain areas of the body are more visible than others. For example, tattoos on the arms or wrists may be seen by employers or customers, while ankle tattoos can easily be covered by socks or shoes. Back tattoos are also easy to hide when needed. If you need assistance deciding, our friendly team can help you pick a spot and a design that works best for you.

In most cases, we can design a fantastic new tattoo that covers up your existing one. Large blocks of black ink can be more challenging to work with, but our skilled artists can often incorporate these into a new design. If you live locally, come into our studio for a consultation. If you’re not local, send us photos of your tattoo via email, and we can offer advice on your options.

Choosing a colourful tattoo or a single-colour design depends on your tattoo concept. Black and grey tattoos often include white ink for depth and detail and tend to age better over time compared to coloured tattoos, which may fade more quickly depending on placement and exposure to sunlight. Full-colour tattoos, however, can bring vibrancy and life to certain designs. Our experienced artists will help you decide whether your tattoo would benefit from colour and, if so, which shades will work best. If you already have a concept with specific colours, we will ensure the final piece looks realistic and stunning.