Underground Arts Tattoo Studio

Went to Steve because of his huge experience, good reviews, and it felt like he would best get the concept I was going for. What I actually got was a guy who not only didn’t listen to what I wanted but actually did really shoddy line work with what he did do. As it turns out part of this was because he was constantly stoned, though I did not realise this until the last session. On subsequently discussing with other tattoo artists it seems like his reputation in that community is pretty poor. It was a big piece that I kept expecting to come together but didn’t. It’s cost me thousands of dollars in fix up work and even then it will never be what I wanted and I’ll have to also do partial removal. He’s a nice guy and I liked the intimate vibe of the studio but whatever talent he had it’s not there now.

I wish I could give these guys more than 5 stars but anyway I am so grateful for these guys as they got me this afternoon which was really good then running a few minutes late due to Public transport then getting lost but anyway these guys were amazing and did exactly what I asked for and added a few extra detail and I'm absolutely in love with my new tattoo and

Awesome tattoo from Steve the other day. He really helped me out since I was on a time crunch and I absolutely love my tatt! High quality work from an experienced and friendly artist, so I highly recommend. I'm definitely coming back in xmas for some additions :)

Gotta tattoo from here 1 year ago. The tattoo ended up with a bad infection and has not turned out well at all, it is nothing like what I asked for and mono coloured and shaded the way I asked not to. Would defintly not recommend

I had booked in for a tattoo and showed up on time. Steve had someone with him and he was running well behind (1.5 hours). Nobody bothered to call me to tell me and I overheard him saying to his apprentice 'just chuck her out I'm busy'. And this is after I paid a $50 deposit. Diary management and customer service isn't rocket science.

Definitely recommend going in and having a good korero with Steve about what you want, this tattoo studio is part of Wellington's cultural identity.

Ive known Steve for over 20years or so now. A man with amazing knowledge and talent, and a very understanding man. Steves a very unique soul, and tattooing literally pumps thru his veins! Really amazing with Maori ta moko, and especially his dragons also. If you want something with real heart and soul, go check out Undergroundarts! They will definitely help you with designs also. (I would personally ignore the negative comments. I trust Steve and the tattooist at UGA 100%)

Been to this place twice on a last minute whim both tattoos are fantastic. Went in today as a walk in. Let Steve do what he wanted to do as long as(it was spelt rightaye steve) and he did an awesome job. Highly recommend

Steve was nice and I cannot speak for his tattooing. My tattooist Matt (not the Matt listed on the website but another, different Matt, weirdly) botched the job. Talked me out of the work I asked for for an inferior design, left an errant line unfinished, and the other small piece he did I need touched up/reworked. Only after healing did I realise how bad it was. I’m changing everything he touched, avoid this guy.