Tā moko are Māori tattoos that typically express the individual's whakapapa (ancestry). (File photo)
Now, students may wear visible tā moko, as well as mau kakī, hei tiki and whakakai – traditional Māori neck pendants usually made with pounamu (greenstone) or bone.
Any student and their whānau will first need to inform the school on why they believe their tattoo is a tā moko.
The head of faculty or te pouarahi Māori (leader) will then decide if the visible tattoo should be recognised as tā moko.
Clarification must also be sought for taonga Māori.
Supplied
Westlake Boys High School principal David Ferguson said allowing students to wear tā moko and taonga Māori was a positive move for the school.