The Meaning Behind the Name Fat Puku’s

Fat Puku’s Wynyard’s regal portrait of Puku herslef.

Let’s rewind to 2014 when V and his wife Selina lived the dream in Melbourne. They decided to adopt a rad turtleshell Persian cat, adding a furry new member to their crew. Naming this groovy feline was an adventure in itself. V and Selina, ever fond of sharing their love for  Kiwi slang and Maori, taught their Aussie mate Shane some choice words like “kai” for food, “chur” for thanks, and of course, “puku” meaning belly.

Shane, being the legend he is, started dropping “puku” into everyday convo. After polishing off a hefty meal, he’d pat his stomach and exclaim, “My puku is so full!” It became his signature line! Inspired by these good times, V and Selina christened their new pet, Puku, a nod to shared laughs and cross-Tasman camaraderie.

Fast-forward a few years, and V and Selina packed up their bags and headed back to Auckland, New Zealand—with Puku riding shotgun, of course. Soon after their return, at a killer birthday bash filled with classic tunes and  good company, V and his mate Gary started riffing on an idea. Amidst the neon lights and friendly banter, they conceptualized starting a burger truck that would serve up the most righteous smash burgers Auckland had ever tasted.

When it came to naming their brainchild, the choice was a no-brainer. Combining their love for their chunky feline friend and a tip of the hat to Shane’s newly acquired slang, Fat Puku’s Smash Burgers was born. It was the perfect blend of friendship and good vibes.

So next time you’re cruising down the streets of Auckland and your puku starts to rumble, swing by Fat Puku’s. Not only will you score a burger that’s the bomb, but you’ll also become part of a story that’s as heartwarming as the final episode of your favourite 90s sitcom.

It’s more than just a feed—it’s a nostalgic journey that’ll leave your puku feeling fat and your heart full.

Stay rad out there!