The turtle for family is central in this Polynesian half sleeve tattoo prepared for Adam, surrounded by two suns, one of mountains and one of shark teeth to symbolize stability, protection, and success both in work and life.
The underlying braid and gecko symbolize union and health as main values related to family.
There is also a dot next to the couple within the turtle to symbolize the importance of their union (flax leaves) through any adversity (the opposing waves), with their children on the front flippers (their initials are included) supported by the parents in the center.
Fish hooks are for prosperity.
On the back of the arm, the people next to the row of flies represent the people lost along the voyage (the molina) while shark teeth are for protection.
The ahuahu o Mataora with the puhoro motif were used to symbolize a challenging path and physical prowess while stepping stones at the base symbolize all the things learnt and achieved.
On the other side, the voyage goes on (molina and birds) with prosperity (the fish).
On top, ancestors watch over the family, with Tefio in the center representing Adam's mother.
The colored image below shows the main elements within the tattoo: