July 2009
Apparently New Zealand recently became the most heavily tattooed country in the world, taking the mantle from Spain. New Zealand’s also pretty well-known for producing some of the best tattoo work around as well. There’s always an element of risk just wandering off the street into a tattoo studio – and there are a lot of them in Auckland – so, if you haven’t heard any good recommendations, here are a few whose reputations precede them.
Adam Craft’s studio, The Tattooed Heart (formerly Illicit) on K Road, is one of the best-known studio in Auckland… With good reason. Adam’s work is faultless, his lines are fine and clean and his colour work is awesome. As a result you’re unlikely to be able to drop in for that impulse tattoo (which is never a good idea anyway!) with waiting lists up to several months for Adam’s time.
The secret’s out about Karla Hansen. This young artist and tattooist, working out of the Streetwise Studio opposite 277 in Newmarket, has begun making a name for herself with a loyal clientele that love her work and swear she has a great touch… An ability to take a bit of the sting out of a sometimes uncomfortable process! They also have a great body-piercing service there if you’re into a bit of steel enhancement.
K Road is also home to another of Auckland’s iconic studios, Sacred Tattoos. Co-founder Dean Sacred is one of the best in the business and, like Adam Craft, his book gets filled months ahead. The advantage is that, by the time your appointment rolls round, you’ll be 100% certain you’re getting the right permanent sticker!
Editorial by Jooles Clements