A New Zealand author’s book has been pulled from an online store after she criticised the foreign affairs minister’s traditional Maori tattoo.
Olivia Pierson had tweeted that facial tattoos on a female diplomat was “ugly and uncivilised”.
Nanaia Mahuta is the first female MP in New Zealand to have a Maori facial tattoo. She was appointed as minister in a recent cabinet reshuffle.
Ms Pierson’s tweet sparked anger and calls for her book to be pulled.
In response, prominent New Zealand online retailer Mighty Ape said it had withdrawn her book and “would not be making it available again”.
Some New Zealanders with Maori heritage wear tattoos, known as moko, to mark their genealogy and heritage.
Men’s moko tend to cover their entire face, while women’s moko cover their chin. (BBC)