Motu & Koita women, on the east of the island, were extensively decorated. The designs were applied to the girls in stages. The first was around the age of five and the last and most important tattoo was only applied once a marriage date had been set. Among the Hula and Motu this was the gado, a chevron motif over the breasts, and the gadogado, a chain-like tattoo on the back of the neck. Roro-speaking tribes such as the Waima called this an ‘engagement-tattoo’, mairi mairi. Their version was slightly different. Ideally, all these painful procedures occurred in absolute silence. Not the old woman who applied the tattoos, nor the girl or the accompanying family member who had to hold her still, were allowed to make a sound. This was unrealistic considering the pain and many girls struggled and screamed. If necessary, a third woman would then be brought in to help hold her down.