TAKAPAPA is an indigenous queer short documentary that shares the personal story of Jordan Walker navigating what it means for them to get puhoro as takatāpui.

The documentary focuses on Tairāwhiti local Jordan Walker (He Takatāpui Ahau) receiving puhoro from kaitā o Te Tairāwhiti Maia Gibbs and what it means as a gender diverse person to receive the ancestral marking.

Flowing from the hips down to the thighs, puhoro is the predominant pattern seen on the legs and buttocks of both tāne and wāhine.

Through a traditional lens the pattern itself speaks to the strength, agility and endurance of the individual.

Puhoro patterns also incorporate whakapapa, specific attributes and characteristics, symbolising where they come from and what role they play within their community.

In a contemporary context wearing puhoro continues to carry these values but also an act of cultural pride, a statement of self-determination, and reaffirming cultural connections to whānau, hapu and iwi.

TAKAPAPA explores themes around reconnecting to culture, gender affirming healthcare, moko as a way of processing grief, embodying masculinity and transitioning, and what is “Takapapa” through kōrero with kaumātua, rangatahi and kaitā (moko artists).

‍