SafePlants

Aku Aku: A Multifaceted Name

The name "Aku Aku" appears in a diverse range of contexts, from video games to literature and even real-world establishments. It's important to note that "Aku Aku" is not a botanical term. This entry explores the various meanings and associations of this name.

Common Associations

• Crash Bandicoot: Aku Aku is a benevolent, magical mask protecting Crash Bandicoot in the popular video game series. He is depicted as an ancient witch doctor spirit.
• Thor Heyerdahl's Book: Aku-Aku: The Secret of Easter Island is a book detailing Thor Heyerdahl's research on Easter Island's statues.
• Tiki Bars: "Aku Aku" is used as the name of several tiki bars, including locations in Orlando, Florida, and Oslo, Norway.

Considerations for Children

The association of "Aku Aku" with the Crash Bandicoot video game character makes it recognizable to children. The character is generally portrayed as friendly and helpful.

Quirky Facts

• The sounds Aku Aku makes in the Crash Bandicoot games are gibberish, not intended to have a specific meaning, but have been interpreted differently by people involved in the game's creation.
• In Finland, Donald Duck is called "Aku Ankka," a seemingly unrelated but interesting linguistic coincidence.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• "Aku-Aku" refers to the spirits of ancestors in Polynesian cultures, who are generally considered friendly and provide guidance.
• Thor Heyerdahl's book connects the term with research on the giant stone statues of Rano Raraku and Anakena on Easter Island.

Other Uses

• Beer: Aku Aku Lemongrass Ale is a beer brewed by Ngne in Norway.
• Restaurants: A restaurant named Aku aku exists in Mojacar.
• Luxury Yacht: AKU AKU is the name of a 30-meter luxury motor yacht.

Further Information

• Information and products related to "Aku-Aku" can be found on Amazon.com and Etsy.com.
• IMDb hosts message boards discussing the 1960 film "Aku-Aku".