Frequently Asked Questions

  • A process of tattooing, where the marking is made without use of a mechanical device. This method of tattooing is over 5,000 years old, and is still practiced all over the world today. Usually though, tattoos are preformed using the same modern tattooing needles and ink as most tattoo-machines.

    (Not to be confused with 'hand-tapping' which is a SE Asian and Polynesian method of tattooing which utilizes a set of Tapping Sticks.)

  • The short answer is, yes. Tattoos hurt.

    But in general, clients who have previously been tattooed via machine, comment on how much more gentle the handpoking process is. The tattoo is preformed with the same needle, but it is being conducted by a human hand. Rather than an unfeeling mechanical force. The "pain" is more manageable, and comes in less relentless doses.

    Tattoo "pain tolerance" is a poor way to understand this phenomenon. It's not about withstanding a negative external sensation... It's more about allowing yourself to relax into a state of comfort which can melt away the 'anxiety of pain'.

    There are, of course some areas of the body which are harder to endure recieving a tattoo on than others. But the key is not to measure the process by the pain it will cause, but by the joy that the results it will bring! The pain is fleeting, but the tattoos will last a lifetime.

  • Tuesday, Friday, Saturday (10AM - 6PM)

    Wednesday between 10AM - 2PM

  • Yes. Exclusively.

    Artistic integrity was instilled upon me by my Mentor. I will not replicate the designs of other artists. I am happy to draw inspiration from reference-images, and to personalize tattoos, but I do not simply copy and paste images onto skin.

    It is important to remember that each tattoo artist is an individual. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. If your request is not a project which I feel like I am the ideal artist to preform, I am more than happy to put you in contact with any number of other specialist tattooers whom I know personally, and recommend highly!

    If you have questions about designs, please reach out via Email.

  • Yes of course! All are welcome in The Temple.

    The only factor to consider is that the space is quite small. We can accommodate three people comfortably, or four with a little crowding if need be.

    Please bear in mind as well that your artist is more than happy to be your support person. We listen, we talk, we share, we coach you through it. Keeping it a one on one experience is a good way to build trust, and positive artist - client relationships.

  • The Temple is an off-grid stand-alone studio which currently rests in the front garden at: 11b Platinum place, Tamahere.

    Parking is available outside the front gate.

    The Temple is the smaller of the two green buildings on the right.

    Your artist should be there to greet you, but if the space is unattended, please ring the little brass bell.

    (Please do not follow the gravel driveway to the large stone house at the end.)

  • Yes, of course! We try to go the extra mile for every client and each project; but if you have something a little different in mind, feel free to talk to us about it.

    The practice of 'Spiritual / Intentional tattooing' is based around the idea that there is an open and honest dialog between clients and artists.

    People of all backgrounds should feel welcome to share who they are, and bring a bit of their unique presence to this safe space.

  • Because it is a place of ritual and ceremony.

    Yes, it is primarily a modern, functional tattoo studio.

    But we wanted the name to reflect the stoic vibes of a hallowed, sacred space.

    We believe that the tattoo world has lost too much of it's ceremonial side.

    And wanted to provide an appropriate venue for clients who are seeking to make their tattoo journey a truly special one.

  • Yes we do.

    We know that it is all too common for clients to have some regret attached to some of their older ink. At The Temple, we would be happy to help transform those old or faded tattoos into powerful markings which you can be proud of!

    However, due to the nature of Handpoke style tattooing, we may not be the right fit for your specific project.

    Cover-up tattoos always require a preliminary consultation in-person.

    During your consultation, the artist will be able to discern the best course of action.

    Sometimes, it's a simple cover-up, others, we may recommend laser-tattoo-removal (which we do not offer).

    If a project is well beyond our scope as Machine-free tattooers, we can help guide you to other talented local tattoo artists whom we trust to take care of you.

  • No sorry. Although it is a wonderful practice, our main artist is not of a Maori background, and will not take on the Mahi which does not belong to him.

    For Ta Moko and Kirituhi, we personally recommend you seek out the work of one of our long-time friends.

    Mr. Julious Mora ( @aotearoa_arts ) is a wonderfully skilled tattooer, and a very genuine soul.

  • Non-machine tattooing, tends to take a little bit longer than conventional modern tattooing. But the slower pace makes the whole experience more gentle.

    The extra time is also a gift. It allows the opportunity to chat and laugh and tell stories!

  • Aftercare is an important part of the tattooing process, and should not be neglected.

    Your artist will go over the basics either you in person and is happy to answer any questions you might have.

    Basically, your main job is to keep the tattoo clean. Remove plastic wrapping after a couple of hours.

    Give it a wash with soap and warm water, then gently pat dry with a clean towel.

    Leave uncovered to 'breathe' for the most part.

    Re-wrap with cling film for the first night, or if you are wearing clothing which may rub the area, or are involved in a task (such as gardening) which could cause dirt / dust to enter the skin.

    From day two, apply a thin layer of a trusted moisturizer or aftercare balm to your clean and dry tattoo a few times per day.

    It may become dry, itchy, flaky or begin to peel throughout the healing process, but don't scratch! Just keep applying the aftercare product as advised.

    Avoid sun exposure and prolonged soaking of the tattooed area for about two weeks if possible.

    Aftercare balm available for purchase in studio.

  • Yes. A tattoo is meant to last a lifetime.

    As artists, we stand by our work.

    But touch-ups are a fairly normal part of the industry, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us in regards to this. We prefer that your tattoo is looking it's best, as our names and reputations are attached to our work.

    We will offer up to two free touch-up sessions for tattoos we have done.

    Touch-ups are much more common around joints like fingers, feet, elbows necks etc.

    The reality is that skin is a living Organ. It grows, gets damaged, sun tanned etc.

    We will do our best to ensure that your tattoo is always looking good!

  • Yes. We require $50 deposits for all bookings.

    This just helps ensure that we don't do all of the planning and preparation for nothing. Sudden cancelations are very inconvenient for us, so if you need to cancel, please give us at least two weeks notice.

  • No, sorry. These options are not available.

    Ours is a very old fashioned trade, and we prefer payment in cash.

    Bank transfer is possible, but not preferred.