The manaia is a creature from Maori traditions, which represents a guardian angel and balance.
This manaia tattoo was prepared for Lance and it symbolizes protection on his journey.

From tail to head we included a moray eel and thorns to represent hardships.
The waves represent a change, which brought him knowledge to find a new balance (the Marquesan cross), reached with fighting spirit (the spearheads), tenacity and determination (the hammerhead shark motif) and adaptability (shark teeth).
The lizard symbolizes healing.

The chasing birds and the mere represent balance between the loved ones (the chasing birds for the support always granted) and his duties (the mere symbolizing the chief and respect, service).

The koru is a new start that brings a new focus through changes (the star with waves), and a rebirth (the breath of life).

The colored legenda below shows the individual elements within the tattoo: