The kaitiaki/guardian of the hue is Hine-pū-te-hue.

Hine-pū-te-hue is known as the atua/goddess of peace. It is said that in the creation story, after Ranginui and Papatuanuku were separated and there was anger and fighting amongst the gods, Hine-pū-te-hue intervened and bought peace. Hence all musical instruments made from hue are like their kaitiaki and sing songs that are peaceful.

Traditionally most hue were used for storing food. Some were used for the special task of storing karakia/prayers, which could be released quickly from the hue in times of need.