Since the turtle shell motif we used symbolizes the traveller and the fern bud, or koru, symbolizes continuity through new lives, we saw this design as a voyage through time, a link between past and present, and we called it "Korero tipuna", or "tradition".
The plain black areas can eventually be lightened by colouring them with some traditional patterns like the ones in the following pic:
Have fun with these tiny elegant designsRelated tattoos:

Extension

Rebirth

Bond

All is possible

Meeting

New start

Balance of Nature

Rebirth

Life

New life, continuity

Rebirth from change