Puka Nacua is of Polynesian descent. Specifically, his mother, Penina, and her side of the family are originally from West Samoa. Nacuas ethnicity has had a significant influence on his life, culture, and playing style. He acquired the nickname "Puka," which means fat and chubby in Samoan, due to his size as a baby. Although his original name is Makea, he is known as Puka.