Question 1

Where is the studio?

Accepted Answer

Horoeka Rising is located amongst the rolling hills of Upper Moutere.
I have intentionally created a private studio space designed to offer one-on-one tattoo experiences with my full presence and attention. To honour the privacy of both the space and the people who visit it, the studio address is shared once a booking has been confirmed.

Question 2

What is a tattoo ceremony?

Accepted Answer

At its heart, a tattoo ceremony is simply an invitation to be fully present with the experience of receiving a tattoo.

The natural surroundings, slower pace, and intentional space at Horoeka Rising create fertile ground for reflection, connection, and meaning-making. For some people, this may feel deeply ceremonial. For others, it may simply be a peaceful tattoo experience away from the noise of everyday life.

Each experience is tailored to the individual.

For those who wish, we may incorporate practices such as intention setting, ceremonial cacao, oracle cards, prayer, fire ceremony, or guided reflection. These offerings are always optional.

My role is to hold a safe and supportive space where you can arrive as you are, whether you're seeking a meaningful ritual, a moment of pause, or simply a beautiful tattoo.

All you need to bring is an open mind and an open heart.

Question 3

Can I bring a support person?

Accepted Answer

Horoeka Rising is primarily a one-on-one experience.

This allows me to give you my full attention and creates space for a more focused, relaxed, and personal tattooing process.

If you require a support person, please discuss this with me before your appointment. I'm happy to consider individual circumstances and accessibility needs.

Question 4

What is ceremonial cacao?

Accepted Answer

Ceremonial cacao is a pure, minimally processed paste made from whole cacao beans.

Unlike standard cocoa powder or commercial chocolate, ceremonial cacao retains its natural fats and many of its beneficial compounds. Traditionally consumed as a warm drink, it has been used in various cultures as a tool for connection, reflection, creativity, and intention setting.

While cacao is not a psychedelic substance, many people experience it as a gentle heart-opening plant medicine that can support emotional awareness and presence.

Ceremonial cacao is offered as an optional part of the experience and is never required.

Question 5

What is an intention?

Accepted Answer

An intention is simply something you wish to bring awareness to during your tattoo experience.

Unlike a goal, which focuses on a future outcome, an intention focuses on how you choose to show up in the present moment.

An intention might be:
Calling in something you wish to cultivate, such as strength, self-love, courage, trust, creativity, or abundance.
Releasing something that no longer serves you, such as fear, resentment, self-judgement, or limiting beliefs.
Acknowledging a life transition, milestone, or personal journey.

There is no right or wrong intention. Sometimes the most powerful intention is simply to be present.

Question 6

How does the design process work?

Accepted Answer

Every tattoo is custom created for the individual receiving it.

Most designs are finalised on the day of your appointment. Working directly with the body and having real-time conversation allows for a more intuitive and collaborative design process.

Depending on the project, some artwork may be prepared beforehand, while other pieces may be drawn directly onto the body.

Trust is an important part of the process.

Horoeka Rising is not a space for replicating existing tattoos or copying images found online. Instead, I create original work inspired by your story, ideas, and the unique flow of your body.

The goal is to create something that feels authentically yours.