Otautahi Tattoo Christchurch
Information about Otautahi Tattoo Christchurch
8011, Christchurch
Opening hours
- sunday: 11h-17h
- monday: 10h-17:30
- tuesday: 10h-17:30
- wednesday: 10h-18h
- thursday: 10h-18h
- friday: 10h-18h
- saturday: 10h-17h
Situated in the heart of the beautiful Garden City, right next to the iconic Bridge of Remembrance and the serene Avon River, Ōtautahi Tattoo has thrived since its rebirth in 2015. This tattoo studio has become a beacon in the body art scene of Christchurch, offering a welcoming and professional environment.
With a team of talented and passionate artists, each specializing in a variety of tattoo styles and genres, Ōtautahi Tattoo is the ideal place to bring your body art ideas to life. From minimalist designs to large, intricate tattoos, you will find the expertise and care needed to transform your concept into skin art.
The studio's relaxed and friendly atmosphere, complemented by a carefully curated music selection, ensures that every visit is a pleasurable experience. Moreover, the team not only focuses on creating stunning artwork but also provides aftercare services and laser tattoo removal, ensuring that each client receives comprehensive care.
Visit us at 101/112 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City, or contact us at 03 365 2566 for more information. Your next tattoo awaits at Ōtautahi Tattoo.
Otautahi Tattoo Christchurch: Reviews
Fantastic experience: Thank you, Shaun, for the beautiful tattoo. You translated my life story into symbolic language. It was an honor that you did this for me. It's perfect.
Fantastic experience: Thomas Henry thank you.you did an awesome job will definitely be back in the future.
Fantastic experience: Thomas Henry thank you so much for doing a great job with my tattoo. Will definitely be back in future. Ngā Mihi
Negative experience: $700 for a 1 hour 45 minute tattoo. That is all
Fantastic experience: This was my first tattoo I've received; I didn't have an idea set in stone and was really happy to play around with it. Nate was my artist and he met my expectations and more by giving me a few ideas such as changing the tattoo to have a starting point, it looks amazing and he was super sweet, everyone I interacted there was lovely as well. 10/10 recommend!!
Fantastic experience: I got there my best tatoo ever last october. I live in Mexico and I get there just to get it.
Fantastic experience: Had mine and my little sisters Tā moko done by the bro Shaun, can say it is one of the best things I've spent money on. The Tā moko was beautiful for me and my sister, service and the set up was awesome, felt like I was at home at end of the second day. Shaun's mahi was on, he was really humble and easy going. It was our first time getting a Tā moko and couldn't be happier. Taonga we'll keep for life.
Fantastic experience: 12/10! I got my first tattoo 10 years ago at otautahi queenstown and now 2 new ones in christchurch. Nate did a great job! I couldnt be happier with my new tattoos. The whole team there is just amazing. Cant wait to come back to new zealand and get another one here! Thank you so much! ♡
Negative experience: Had a terrible experience!!! I had mad an appointment specifically for 10:30am. Got a email to say please confirm. I replied to confirm the appointment. But wasn’t told that just because i didn’t pay the deposit the appointment will be half an hour late or it’s not confirmed…. Or a txt to say your appointment will be later as artist running late ……. No confederation that people have to pay for parking and they have a busy life and other commitments rather than just waiting for a tattoo artist to show up when they want. Never going back.
Fantastic experience: Leo Knight was my tattoo artist, I could not have wished for a better first tattoo experience. He was so kind, patient and relaxed when I didn’t have a specific idea in mind, he helped me bring a number of concepts and ideas to life which culminated in an incredibly beautiful first back tattoo. He went above and beyond to ensure that I was comfortable, and that the whole experience was relaxing and enjoyable. He is a true artist and I could not have wished for a better outcome, so grateful for this experience thank you so much Leo and Otautahi Tattoo! I’m dreaming of the next one already
Fantastic experience: Leo and the team were excellent for our first ever tatoos couldn’t have been more pleased with Leo’s work , friendly , fabulous place
Fantastic experience: Nate made my experience of getting a new tattoo easy and really a great experience. He answered all my questions and more, he is awesome at what he does and I'm really happy with the result of my tattoos. Cheers Bruce
Fantastic experience: Bit of a late review. But I’ve been to Otautahi on 4 separate occasions (I used to live in the north island and travelled down to Christchurch just for tattoos) Baz is the best tattoo artist out there. The place is clean and comfortable. Everyone who works there is super friendly and has an all around amazing vibe. The location is awesome too. Will definitely be coming back.
Fantastic experience: I had a great experience at Haven! Everyone was so lovely and welcoming. They were super accommodating finding time me for the day of and Kylie did a gorgeous job. I love my new tattoo and will definitely be back!!
Fantastic experience: Just got my first Tā Moko done with Shak. He did an awesome job, super smooth and quick and it looks amazing with my daughter’s name incorporated. Thanks to Tatum for working with me over email and getting in on short notice. Will definitely be back next time we’re over visiting.
Fantastic experience: Perfect first tattoo experience, the staff is explaining really well and the artist is REALLY talented. Highly recommend !
Fantastic experience: Had a tattoo with Whitney who came in on her day off for me! Really lovely experience as a whole, constantly checking in with me and a really thorough with getting exactly what I wanted. Highly recommend and will almost definitely be back !! <3
Thanks for the lovely review Mia, your tattoo looked great on you! We look forward to seeing you again :)
Fantastic experience: This is almost a year late but still sharing because this is my favourite tattoo to date! Got my first tattoo with Baz from Otautahi Tattoo Christchurch. The reason as to why I became so addicted! The process was nowhere near painful for me, as Baz was extremely gentle yet quick and efficient. The team walked me well from consultation all the way to when the tattoo was done. Extremely thankful to Baz and the entire Otautahi Team!
Fantastic experience: Fantastic experience. Came to Christchurch 23yrs after my first visit with a design I got done roughly back then. Brad altered it and produced something amazing for me. Brilliant atmosphere. Super talented artists. I can't thank Brad enough. Keep producing guys.
Fantastic experience: I got my very first tattoo last Saturday at Otautahi Tattoo in Christchurch, and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. ✨ Whitney was amazing! Super professional, kind, and really listened to what I had in mind. She took all my ideas on board and created something beautiful, delicate, and totally me. I felt heard and looked after the entire time, which made such a difference, especially as a first-timer. The studio vibe was relaxed and welcoming, everything was clean and organised, and I felt completely at ease from the moment I walked in. Thank you so much, Witney! I’m absolutely in love with my tattoo, and I’ll 100% be back when I’m ready for the next one!
Fantastic experience: Absolutely amazing place, great artists, so nice and welcoming. Zoe did my fine line tattoos she was amazing!!
Fantastic experience: First tattoo was nervous for getting it. Staff were so friendly, comforting and hyped about the whole process!! I will 100% go back for my next ones. Whitney was awesome and highly skilled.
Thanks Liam! You were awesome too! All the best & we'll see ya sometime soon :)
Fantastic experience: Sorry for the recent comments I had phone call with the owner and wow what a understanding man thank you for ringing and helping me to understand the miscommunication and coming up with a plan this shows alwsone leadership in a company in all the tarp is on point amazing would recommend user 100% as you showed you care for your customers thank you.
Fantastic experience: I am totally in awe of the quality of detail Shaun managed to retain in a bespoke design I supplied, sorry for the complexity but you nailed it ! What’s more you achieved this masterpiece under budget , you rock !
Fantastic experience: I just got my second tattoo, and I love it! The artist is amazing – professional, collaborative, and the shop was clean. The detail in the tattoo is incredible, with crisp lines. The whole experience was smooth, and the pain was manageable.I highly recommend and wouldn’t go anywhere else for my tattoos.
Negative experience: Massively overpriced. Not a welcoming or private atmosphere. Some staff are nice, but the bald owner seems aggressive, defensive and slightly unhinged.
Fantastic experience: Have gotten three tattoos done here, one in 2021 and two in 2025 and every time I felt safe, heard and experienced incredible service. Whitney drew the tattoo on my arm on the spot and was super nice throughout it all. She has incredible talent and I’m stoked my unique tattoo!! They do drop ins, are right in the city centre so if you are keen to get a tattoo, definitely check them out!
Thanks so much for coming in, we are stoked you were happy with your new art and the experience. Come back and see us again!
Fantastic experience: Went in on Sunday morning and saw Baz had a quick chat about what I wanted showed him a couple pictures lay down on the table/bed type thing and about four hours later I was good to go. Virtually a pretty much painless experience, just about fell asleep to tell the truth. They’ve got an awesome looking shop with great artists. Would definitely recommend Ōtautahi tattoos if you’re looking for some new ink and I’ll definitely be going back when I’m looking to get some new ink work done.
Thanks for coming in! We are so happy to hear you had an amazing experience with us :)
Fantastic experience: This is the third piece I’ve had done by Lee. Her design skills are epic and she always provides good chat and quality advice for post care. The studio itself is clean and the staff and other artists are friendly and welcoming. Booking is also nice and easy. Looking forward to the next one. Merry Christmas team!
Fantastic experience: Got my leg tattoo done by Brad…he was super chilled and made the whole experience just amazing! His work and lines are fantastic! He was very accommodating and professional with timing as there were 4 of us to tattoo (from the same whanau) and absolutely nothing was a problem. The parlour was very clean! Definitely a 5 star rating! Absolutely recommend to anyone!
Fantastic experience: Ended our NZ holiday with a small memento tattoo. AMAZING environment and artists. Kate was great at organising rhis into our rushed timeline, thank you to Lee for and awesome job tattooing and interpreting our holiday highlights, and a shout out to the boss for the additional entertainment
Thank you for the lovely review, it was great to have you both come in. Come visit us again next time your in Chch :)
Fantastic experience: My daughter had her first taa moko done here yesterday by Thomas. All the staff were lovely and easy to chat with. Thomas is incredible. Great artist and listens to what you're wanting. Highly recommend them. They are all amazing talented people.
Fantastic experience: Went for a small tattoo to remind me of my solo trip to NZ. Zoe was lovely. Place is clean and relaxed. Very happy.
Fantastic experience: Absolutely lovely experience, everyone I interacted with was so kind. A great frist experience. 100% recommend. If I ever get more tattoos, I will definitely he back. It's such a lovely space, too. I have done a bit of studio trialing. since as I have been getting a few different styles. This was still my best tattoo experience. They take the time in the pre tattoo consultant to talk to you and let you ask questions. It is a bit more pricey than some other studios, but their work is incredible. I worked with Ebony on my beautiful bee, and I get compliments on how well done he is all the time, including from other tattoo artists.
Fantastic experience: Had a great experience with Otautahi Christchurch with Tom. Good banter, good advice, and made a first-timer tattoo turn into “what do I want next?” I’ll be back for more.
Fantastic experience: What an awesome Studio and Fantastic atmosphere. My daughter and I managed to secure an appointment today and it was amazing. We were both in awe watching the artists interact together like family. Whitney was super sweet and inked us exactly what we wanted. 100% recommend! Ange
Fantastic experience: Communication was AWESOME! Service was AWESOME! Artist was AWESOME! Design and tattoo was… AWESOME! So if you’re looking for an “AWESOME” experience and tattoo, this is the place to go!! I had Thomas and he was amazing, he did my first ever tattoo and I’m extremely happy with it! Definitely will be back!! Couldn’t recommend these guys enough!!!!
Fantastic experience: Dear Zoe, Thank you so much for turning my vision into a stunning reality on my skin. Your artistry is truly remarkable! Your kindness and understanding during the session were as impressive as your art.
Fantastic experience: My partner and I were both lucky enough to get tattoos here a few days ago. We popped in at about 11 am. as walk-ins and managed to nab appointments a few hours later. The receptionist was incredibly friendly and helpful. My tattoo artist was super lovely and really put me at ease. This was my least painful tattoo by far. Had an all-around great experience and would recommend getting tattooed here!
Fantastic experience: I came here for my first tattoo, it was such a cool experience. Shout out to Imogen! She was really reassuring, perfect for a first timer tattoo, and the piece came out amazing. She took into account every detail I asked, so so happy with the turnout. Thank you!!
Negative experience: Asked to get a design made that was very special for me said he’d get it done within a week. A week goes by and I hear nothing, so I email again with no reply for around a week and then he said he’d finish the design a week later. Another week comes around and I hear absolutely nothing this went on back and forth for about a month when I finally got my design. It felt very rushed. I have now asked for the meanings behind the patterns used in my design and have been told I’d get a reply in a few days and it has now been over a week again and had heard nothing so from past experience with this parlour I’ve learnt u have to consistently be on their back to get a response. I have now received a very odd email from one of the staff members saying “Yo bro can you stop hassling the shop about your design, man’s busy and I’ll get to it when I can.” I’d consider this highly unprofessional. Tattoos are lovely however customer service is horrible. It’s not only about the tattoo but the experience. I was also asked to come in for a consultation (I live 3 hours away) so I drive all that way for a 5 minute talk about how much it would be after she looked at the picture on the email I sent her. I don’t see how she couldn’t have just quoted me online since I sent the picture beforehand. Quite disappointing
Fantastic experience: I checked out Otautahi's web page and Instagram and immidiately was drawn by Ebony's work, she is a talented artist with over 13 years of experience in the industry. Not only she gave me my best done/designed tattoo ever which by the way is so brilliant everyone has been complimenting it a great deal, her customer's service was top notch. She's truly a nice person with a big heart, and she made me feel very comfortable throughout a 4 hours tattoo process. I am extremely glad I waited 1.5 years to finally got tattooed by her (covid, lockdown, rellocating), it was completely worth it and I would recommend her to anyone. Also, big shout-out to the entire Otautahi Christchurch team for their professionalism from start to end, great team with many great artists for any styles you want.
Negative experience: Emailed about my first ever tattoo. Wanted a fine line design and specifically asked about this. Sent through my design prior to my appointment (done in fine line) and paid the deposit. Turned up for my appointment and they were running late due to doing a large group that were on a rugby trip. When I returned for my appointment later, it was very disorganised. Artist hadn't seen my emails, request or design. It felt very rushed. Artist was nice, but you could tell he was under the pump. I should have rescheduled, but I was so excited about getting it done - my mistake. Design was done okay, but definitely not fine line. Still Feel quite disappointed with it weeks later. Wouldn't go back again.
Fantastic experience: After our trip through New Zealand, we wanted to end it with a lasting memory of this country and its people. Since our trip ended in Christchurch the decision was made for Otautahi Tattoo and we did not regret it for a single moment. Our tattoo artist was Brad and after hearing our life story he created a free style traditional design that reflected our love for each other, our children, our grandchildren and our love for New Zealand. We have also seen the work of the other artists and it is all equally beautiful. The atmosphere is relaxed end pleasant. Thank you Brad and have a happy life. You are a great guy! Erik&Jolanda.
Fantastic experience: Brad was awesome, he does beautiful work! Amazing tattoo artists here and super friendly! I would recommend checking this place out for any tattoos, they have a bunch of artists that do all different things.
Negative experience: Sent them a design I wanted for a tattoo so I could get an idea on cost. Was asked to come in for a consultation and pay a fee upfront. Went in, consultation lasted all of 30 seconds, took me longer to find a park. In this time all they did was look at the photo I’d already emailed them in. Ended up booking it in for a month out, and was told they'd email me the design prior to my appointment. Get to the day before and still haven’t received it so emailed them. Get no reply. About an hour before my appointment was meant to happen Jordan rings me to say they’re running a bit behind. I cut in and let him know i wouldn’t be there as per my email the day before. His exact reply was “I get like 80 emails a day, I can’t read them all” I explained I was still waiting for the design, he didn’t seem to care. Wasn’t interested in sending it though or apologising, just didn’t seem to care. Wouldn’t recommend to anyone, seriously need to work on the customer service side of their business. Would like my deposit refunded, but doubt I’ll get that without a fight.
Fantastic experience: Walked in at 10.30am to see if there was any availability that day (travelling back to Aus the next day) was able to be fitted in at 1.30pm. The tattoo arist did amazing work on my daughters first tattoo. She was confident, precise and made my daughter feel at ease even though she was not long out of her apprenticeship. Have had so many positive comments about her tattoo and could not recommend more. Thanks so much.
Fantastic experience: The team here are really helpful and definitely masters of their craft. I'm super impressed with the time and effort that went into the piece and the detail is a stand out. If I lived in NZ I'd be booking in more but will just have to plan it for my next NZ trip.
Fantastic experience: Shout out to Nate for his talent and making the process smooth and easy! No issues at all. My tat turned out amazing and the lines are super crisp. The artists are great and welcoming you’ll definitely be heard here and they’ll take you through every step of the way, 100% recommend if you want a first tattoo but don’t really know much about it.
Fantastic experience: Amazing shop, amazing staff. Make you feel right at home. Spent 2 back to back days with Shaun, as he worked his magic on my new amazing piece. It has a special place in my heart. Thanks for everything gents!
Fantastic experience: The shop was excellent with communicating despite me emailing back and forth from Canada. The staff are professional, super chill, very welcoming and the shop itself was very clean. Shakani was my artist and I’m so happy the shop picked him to do my tattoos. I had a very specific concept in mind and not only did he do a great job, he completely overdelivered and they came out way better than I could have hoped. He was also extremely quick and the tattoo itself was virtually painless. If I’m ever in Christchurch again, I would love to get another tattoo from Shak.
Fantastic experience: Had the most surreal experience receiving a tattoo from Imogen Scovell. She is absolutely unreal, most talented individual I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting! Her precision, perfection and detail in her pieces is unreal. She has such a genuine, kind and welcoming presence at all times. Absolutely adored how much she genuinely cares about her work and the person she’s tattooing. Without a doubt the only person I’m ever going to to receive more tattoos. Not only is her art/tattooing incredible but she’s the most lovely girl you’ll ever meet! Undeniably the best experience you’ll ever have not a single thing I could fault about the tattoo or Imogen!
Fantastic experience: If you’re after beautiful fine line tattoos and an amazing tattoo artist I’d definitely recommend Imogen (@imogen_tattoos on Instagram)! I now have 2 by her and I’m always excited to get more done. She’s so lovely and makes you feel comfortable throughout the entire process.
Fantastic experience: Awesome environment with good music and chill vibe. Had a tattoo from Tom! He made me feel immediately comfortable and is such an awesome cool guy so impressed with his skills and I am so happy with my mandala tattoo! Couldn’t recommend him more and will definitely be going back Thankyou so much Tom!!
Positive experience: Was a good atmosphere and friendly service. Good price too. However, noticed a couple of marks on the side of my tattoo so hoping they will come off in the following days. Overall, good experience though
Fantastic experience: The team were able to accommodate a walk in for 3 of us getting small matching pieces. Great experience all round, Ebony did an awesome job for us especially two of us who were getting our first tattoo. I’ll be back next time I’m in Christchurch.
Negative experience: Great looking studio. The staff are nice when they want to be. Great tattoo artists but soooo overpriced I got ripped off never coming back. The person that tattooed me was acting quite rude wasn’t professional at all. Your lucky I like my piece but never again RIPPED OFF.
Fantastic experience: Loved my whole experience at Otautahi Tattoo. Myself and 2 friends walked in and within 30 minutes we were getting tattooed! All the guys were great and such fun to be around. Will definitely be back again for another tattoo. The fine lines are perfect and I am in love with it! Thanks Otautahi Tattoos!
Fantastic experience: So great! Worked with Jayden on a design consult and then the tattoo itself. Really friendly, professional, and welcoming. Most importantly, super clean and beautiful work. This was my second time with these guys and I would confidently recommend them to anyone. Location and smoko area is really pretty too!
Fantastic experience: Was a great experience. Team are super nice. My Mum was a walk-in and they managed to fit her in to get a Maori design armband done and I went a day later to get a wristband done with a similar design. The tattooist was awesome. Will definitely go there again for future work.
Fantastic experience: Very chilled environment. Made me feel very comfortable and at ease. Love my tattoo and definitely would get my next one from here. It came out sooo much better then what I could've imagined. Thank you sooo much Baz
Fantastic experience: I had a great experience at Otautahi Tattoo- everyone was professional, time efficient and friendly. Price was reasonable and it only took the artist 15mins to complete the tattoo. The artist I had was excellent and the vibes of the place were great- I don't have a tattoo in mind yet but I want to come all the way back here from Wellington just to get my next one done!
Negative experience: Great environment with great people and did a really good job on the tattoo. I'm just very disappointed for getting so ripped off with the price. This tattoo is only about 5cm big and only took half an hour to do and is also only line work so no colour or shading and cost $280. And I didn't find this out until after the stencil had been put on even though in my emails with the manager, I asked for a quote. Very disappointing and won't be coming back unfortunately.
Negative experience: I expected a friendly and helpful team but they were a little bit rough. A tattoo should be a nice experience but they create an uncomfortable environment on the consultation. As I customer I consider that they should be friendly and answer as many questions as I have and at the end they just wrote if you don't like the price that's ok by me. The situation was not about the price, the situation was about the design and the confidence they will make me feel to have a design with them. It's a pity, I consider they can manage the consultations with more customer service. For them this can be one tattoo more but for the client is a total experience.
Hey Gisselle,
Im very sorry to hear this experience was not up to standard.
We try everyday to to better ourselves and create the perfect environment for each client as this can be a nerve racking and scary situation.
As previously mentioned if you were to come in for a consultation we would be able to discuss pricing and work towards your perfect design which is still open.
If not we wish you luck on your searches :)
Fantastic experience: My friend had some amazing pieces done by Brad at Otautahi Tattoo in Christchurch and recommended them to me. I met Jack on the front desk and explained what I thought I wanted and some of my concerns and he put my mind at rest and set up an appointment with Shaun. Shaun was brilliant, he quietly listened to me and then created a magnificent design capturing the things I had spoken about. I can't recommend these guys enough and in particular Shaun!
Fantastic experience: Staff was friendly and professional. The location is Central and easy to locate. Very professional and clean. They were able to fit me in as a walk-in and did a fantastic job with the short opening in my schedule. Will recommend to anyone and will be going back during my next visit. Owner Brad really hooked me up and did a sick Maori style half sleeve.
Fantastic experience: I’m from the US out here for work (and a little holiday). A very dear friend of mine had just passed away and I wanted to get some work done as a tribute. I walked in and met the manager, Jack at the front counter. I showed him a drawing/design I had come up with and the style I was looking for. He paired me up with Ben who was more than happy to assist. I was on a tight schedule and Ben was able to put my idea to stencil and went over the design and any changes on the spot. Before I knew it I was in the chair. Ben laid down some smooth shading, solid line work, and was a very chill and relaxed dude to work with. It was a perfect piece of work for a very sentimental notion. Great shop with a friendly staff and inviting environment. Highly recommended to get your tattoos work done here!
Fantastic experience: Thanks to Jack and Tom for an awesome experience getting my tattoo yesterday. Friendly and helpful from the moment you walk in the door which made for a relaxing environment, which in a situation that isn't always relaxing was refreshing. Will definitely be back again and would hands down recommend Tom as an artist.
Fantastic experience: Making an appointment was super easy! They are quick to reply and really helpful as far as answering any questions via email. Ra was amazing. His designs are beautiful and, besides giving him a location and general shape we were looking for, the rest was all his and I couldn’t be happier with the results! Staff is really nice and a bunch that know how to get along well and help each other out. Super patient and ready to do what they can to give you what you are really wanting. Little pricier then we had expected but worth every penny! Absolutely recommend.
Fantastic experience: The skill by the artists here is absolutely great and the atmosphare makes you want to come back for more
Hey Jarrod,
Thank you for your review and we can't wait to have you back again!
Fantastic experience: Jack made us feel like family straight away. Ra did an amazing job on my sister and I last month. We are in love with our tattoos. Totally recommend this place, great atmosphere!
Fantastic experience: The most enjoyable, friendly and magic place to spend a full day - even if you didn't get the most awesome, personal and spectacular tattoos, as we actually did. Back in our home country Denmark after a splendid month in NZ, bringing with us two pieces of beautiful, unique and original Maori art. Thank you so much to Shaun and Raa - and to the rest of these absolutely wonderful people whom we met there. Lisbeth and Jan
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