This Valentine’s season, love is literally in the air in Auckland as the city prepares to welcome its first international tattoo convention. Honestly? It’s kind of romantic.
Roots Auckland Tattoo Convention is landing at The Cloud, Queens Wharf for one artistic weekend this March, bringing together world-class tattoo artists, live tattooing, competitions, exhibitions and all the good festival energy.
The convention is the brainchild of husband-and-wife duo Ben and Madeline Kaye (co-owners of Ship Shape Tattoo), which means this whole thing was built on love, ink and very good taste.
A creative partnership turned global-scale event? If that’s not couple goals, what is!
With tattoo culture more visible than ever (hi, New Zealand: one of the most tattooed nations on Earth), Roots feels like a love letter to self-expression, creativity and the stories we choose to keep close, whether that’s a matching design, a meaningful symbol, or a “let’s do this together” moment.
Designed to honour tattooing’s deep heritage while celebrating where it’s headed next, Roots brings global icons and local legends together under one very cool roof.
“Tattooing has always been more than just ink on skin; it’s storytelling, identity and art,” said Ben.
“New Zealand artists are globally respected, and Roots is about celebrating that talent here in Auckland, while giving people an opportunity to experience tattoo culture at its very best.”
Across the weekend, Roots will host 185 world-class tattoo artists from New Zealand and overseas, offering live tattooing, tattoo competitions and educational seminars.
Visitors can explore interactive art installations and a dedicated tattoo museum showcasing the history of Auckland’s oldest tattoo studio, while enjoying food trucks, a full bar, arcade games and outdoor activities, making it very date-friendly.
For Madeline, it’s all about making tattoo culture feel open, warm and welcoming.
“Tattooing has given so much to our family and our community. Roots is about honouring the craft while making it welcoming, whether you’re booking in with a dream artist, watching live tattooing for the first time, or simply curious about the culture.”
With artist spaces already selling fast and hype building across the country, Roots Auckland Tattoo Convention is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most unmissable events and a perfect Valentine’s date idea for couples who prefer their love stories bold, creative and a little bit permanent.
Because dinner is nice. Flowers are cute. But getting inked together? That’s a love story you can’t forget.
Tickets are on sale now, whether you’re planning matching tattoos, cheering each other on from the sidelines, or just soaking up the creative atmosphere together. Chocolates are sweet, but ink lasts forever.
Event details:
- Roots Auckland Tattoo Convention 2026
- Venue: The Cloud, 89 Quay Street, Auckland
- Dates: Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March 2026
- Times: 10 am-10 pm on Saturday, 14th March, and 10 am-7 pm on Sunday, 15th March 2026
- Tickets: Prices start from just NZD 21.07 per ticket
- More info and to purchase tickets: aucklandroots.com
