BLACK & GREY REALISM WITH MEANING
Judge MyInk Creative Studio
Judge MyInk is a private, appointment-only creative tattoo studio based in Kawerau, built for clients who value intention, quality, and meaningful work.
With over 20 years in the tattoo industry, Judge specialises in black and grey realism — creating deeply personal pieces that honour identity, memory, and growth. From portraiture and memorial work to large-scale sleeves, native New Zealand wildlife, and moko fusion, every design is approached with patience, precision, and purpose.
Open Thursday–Sunday
10am–4pm
By consultation and appointment only.
Judge MyInk was never built to be “just a tattoo studio".
Elevate, empower, thrive. From humble beginnings to limitless possibilities, where creativity ignites transformation.
The Story Behind the Ink
Born into a family of creatives, I'm the middle child of 3, and I'm proud to say art is in my DNA! My mum's talent inspired me with her whimsical children's books, my uncle's oil paintings are breathtaking, and my brother's artistic skills leave me in awe - he's the true mastermind! And then there's me, living my dream as a singing tattoo artist, spreading joy one design at a time!
Black & Grey Tattoos • Professional Photoshoots • Creative Therapy.
Duration: 5 - 6 hrs. Avg. $250hr
Lot of Fine and Intricate detail involved in a Large 30cm design.
Duration: 4 - 5 hrs. Avg. $200hr
Realism is all Shading and doesn't require a tone of Line work, meaning for most cases can be achieved faster then other styles.
Duration: 3 - 4 hrs. Avg. $250
The Design is a Photo of the Owner on his Bike. Intricate detail involved, requiring more time and precision.
Duration: 2 - 2.5hrs. Avg. $250hr.
If you were to include that hand in the same session your be looking roughly 3 - 4 hrs to complete.
Duration:10-12hrs or 2 Full Days.
These Wings She came with Line work done already and wanted the Shading done. Generally be looking 1 full day for the line work and start shading. Another full day for the shading and completion. Full Day Rates: $1250.
Duration: 2 - 3 hrs. Avg. $250 hr.
Duration: 4-6hrs. Avg. $200 a hr.
It's the Black Shading that requires slow and steady and precise skill to get a good even smooth coverage, without traumatising the skin. Some tattoo well. Some not as well. and Time vary between each.
Duration: 3hrs. A3size Avg. $250hr
Judge MyInk was never built to be “just a tattoo studio.”
From the beginning, Judge approached tattooing differently — not as a transaction, but as a way for his friends to get Good Tattoos at Affordable prices.
Over the years, one thing became clear.
People weren’t coming in impulsively.
They came when something had shifted.
A milestone reached.
A chapter closed.
A loss honoured.
A new version of themselves emerging.
The tattoo was important — but it was never the whole story.
Duration: 4x Half Day. Avg.$250hr
Grow a Sleeve Experience. Client opting for Half Day Sessions of 3hrs each. This is a Full wrap sleeve and took 4 full days to complete.
Duration 15hrs. Avg $200 a hr.
Done in a Weekend Session while he was he for work. 2 x Full Days with a additional half day session a month later to complete.
Duration: 1 Full Day Session. 6hrs. Avg Price $200 a hr.
Grow a Sleeve Experience. 3 x Half Days used to complete. Avg. $200 a hr. This was also a coverup and extension piece. One of those Butterflies arrived dead and we managed to revive him.
Duration 3 - 4hrs. Avg $200 a hr.
Duration: 2 - 3hrs. Avg $250 a hr.
Duration: 2 - 3hrs. Avg. $200 a hr. Minimum Realism design. consider a basic black and grey design.
Duration: 3hrs. Avg $250 hr.
“Every journey begins with a choice — identity, expression, connection.
Duration: 4 - 6 hrs. Avg. $200hr.
Duration: 2 - 3hrs. Avg. $250 hr.
Grow a Sleeve Experience. 2 Full Days to Complete. Avg. $200 hr.
Duration: 2hrs. Avg. $250 hr.
Duration: 3 hrs. Avg. $250 hr. Was 2x A3 size. Could have done with another session For Touch ups and Highlights.
Duration: 2 - 3 hrs, Avg. $200 hr.
Duration: 3 - 4hrs. Avg: $200hr.
(Give Away Prize Winner.)
Duration: 2hrs. Avg. $250hr.
As the years passed, a pattern emerged.
Clients weren’t just booking tattoos.
They were booking permission.
Permission to slow down.
To reflect.
To honour something privately or together.
Many sessions felt therapeutic by nature — not because they were designed that way, but because people finally had the space to pause.
And that’s when the shift happened.
Duration: 2 - 3hrs. Avg: $250hr.
This was a Grow a Sleeve Project. We Started with the Dragon. roughly 3-4hrs for that piece. a Full day for the wings and this session was adding more Symbols to the Symbols she already had prior. Avg. $200hr.
Duration: 4 - 5hrs. Avg, $150 hr.
Duration: 3 - 4hrs. Avg. $250hr.
Duration: 3 - 4 hrs. Avg. $250hr.
Duration: 2 - 3hrs. Avg. $250 hr. another piece that could of done with a Touch up session once it was healed. Sometimes Skin doesnt play ball. and makes it difficult to get a design to the desired result in that session.
Duration: 5 -6 hrs. Avg. $200 hr. Large Design in a uncomfortable area, requiring technique to get the ink in correctly and quickly.
Duration: 3 - 4hrs. Avg. $250hr.
Understanding the 'Why' fuels aspirations and ignites change
This mindset transformed everything that followed, as it allowed us to connect with others on a more profound level, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that was previously unimaginable. When individuals are empowered with time, space, and attention, their work transcends the surface level, unlocking a profound impact that ripples outwards, inspiring others to do the same. By doing so, we create a ripple effect of positive change, where everyone involved is motivated to strive for excellence and make a lasting difference in the world. This, in turn, leads to a sense of purpose that is deeply ingrained, guiding our actions and decisions and illuminating the path to a brighter future.
Judge MyInk no longer sells tattoos!
We're thrilled to introduce Intentional Solo and Shared Tattoo Experiences! Carefully crafted to nurture meaningful connections and profound self-expression. By listening to our community, we've evolved our approach to honour the value of time, intention, and care. Our new experiences are designed to amplify the positive impact of our work, empowering individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
To fuel limitless possibilities
Judge MyInk has transformed into a vibrant Creative Studio. A haven where creativity knows no bounds, comfort inspires imagination, and connection sparks meaningful moments. Here, guests can unwind, envision their dreams, capture life's beauty, and stay connected to their journey, even beyond the studio walls. By tapping into the purpose behind every individual's story, we empower a collective force that ignites positive change and fuels aspirations.
Judge MyInk isn’t for everyone — and that’s intentional.
This space is for the visionaries who believe in the power of meaningful connections. Those who prioritise depth over speed, authenticity over convenience, and presence over perfection. If you're ready to make your mark and create lasting impact — you're in the right place!
Unlock the power to celebrate your journey!
Judge MyInk is where you can pause, reflect, and intentionally mark the moments that empower you. Whether solo or with others, this is where stories of growth and transformation unfold — with creativity, care, and respect. Explore our solo and shared tattoo experiences below and ignite your path to self-expression!
Choose Your Creative Path
Every experience is thoughtfully crafted to empower your unique spirit, whether you're embarking solo, sharing with a kindred soul, or unleashing your vibrant creativity.
shared experiences
Linked by Ink - Couples Edition
Share a full or half-day experience with Your Partner, Bestie or Loved One.
Bound by Ink - Whanau Edition
Full‑day group experience for families and friends (up to six people).
solo transformations
Express & Release
Half-day session for emotional release and resolution.
Rise & Ink
Full‑day experience for personal and professional development.
Grow a Sleeve
Comprehensive multi-session experience to craft your narrative in ink.
Secure your consultation and start your experience
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