Horiyama

Hi there! A little about myself…

My name is Christie Mari Yamate (山手真里) and my Japanese Tattooing name is Horiyama (彫山).

I was born and raised in Hiroshima, Japan. I moved to New Zealand, where my tattooing journey began after graduating with a degree in Design from Auckland University of Technology. I have been tattooing for over 8 years, specialising in traditional Japanese Irezumi. I currently work at Sunset Tattoo, a busy and well known tattoo studio in Auckland.

My work focuses on both large-scale projects and smaller one-point tattoos, with an emphasis on strong composition, clarity, and balance. I aim to create tattoos that are bright, bold, and simple, carrying on a long tradition of tattooing from my country of birth. I feel grateful to create work that connects my Japanese heritage with the people I tattoo here in New Zealand. If you are considering a Japanese tattoo, please feel free to get in touch through the contact form and I will be happy to help with any questions you have.

Why do I call myself Horiyama?

‘Hori’ in Japanese translates as “to carve”. A Japanese tattooer will add the first two syllabes of their last name to Hori which gives them their artists name. This title is given to them by their master/teacher once the artist has completed their apprenticeship. The term ‘Hori’ has been used for centuries by Ukiyo-e artitsts in the edo period.

For any questions regarding your next tattoo (including a quote/time involved), please email me through the contact page. I will be happy to offer you my knowledge and advice regarding your next project!

Email: horiyama.tattoo@gmail.com
Address: Sunset Tattoo NZ, 238 Karangahape Road, Auckland 1010
Phone: 09 376 3423