Ta Moko

Ta Moko actually means the process of creating a tattoo. Moko is the product, the tattoo itself.
The tattoos are made by graving deep cuts into the skin, into which a pigment is tapped.
The Moko is very similar among the Maori to an identity card. For men, the Moko shows their rank in society, their status and ferocity. The male facial tattoo is generally divided into eight sections:

1. Ngakaipikirau (rank). The center forehead area
2. Ngunga (position). Around the brows
3. Uirere (hapu rank). The eyes and nose area
4. Uma (first or second marriage). The temples
5. Raurau (signature). The area under the nose
6. Taiohou (work). The cheek area
7. Wairua (mana). The chin
8. Taitoto (birth status). The jaw

Ancestry is indicated on each side of the face. The left side is generally (but not always, depending on the tribe) the father's side, while the right hand side indicates the mother's ancestry. Descent was a foremost requirement before a Moko could be undertaken.
If one side of a person's ancestry was not of rank, that side of the face would have no Moko design. Likewise if, in the centre forehead area there is no Moko design, this means the wearer either has no rank, or has not inherited rank.

It's not surprising that many people of other civilizations have come to admire the beauty of Maori tattoos. But keep in mind, if you're thinking of getting a Maori inspired tattoo...hold up.
Ta Moko is a cultural tradition and an important part of ancestry among the Maori. Think: did you ask first?