Rachel Jessica Te Ao Maarama House ONZM, (born 20 October 1971), is a renowned actress and filmmaker from New Zealand. She is best known for her roles in the films of Taika Waititi. She has received numerous accolades, such as the Arts Laureate, NZ Order of Merit, 'Mana Wahine' award from WIFT NZ, and Te Waipuna a Rangi (Matariki Awards) for her contributions as an actor and director. Early life She grew up in Kamo, Whangārei, with her adoptive Scottish parents, John and Sheila House. Her tribal affiliations are with Ngāti Mutunga, Te Ātiawa, and Ngāi Tahu. Career Acting {House graduated in 1992 from the New Zealand national drama school, Toi Whakaari. She began working on stage with the Pacific Underground Theatre and the Auckland Theatre Company. She has acted in several major productions that have toured nationally and internationally, including Hone Kouka's Waiora, Carol Anne Duffy's The Worlds Wife, and the UK/New Zealand co-production of Beauty and the Beast. In 1998, House made her screen debut in the short film Queenie and Pete. She played a role in Whale Rider, an award-winning film, in 2002. In 2005, she was a regular cast member in Maddigan's Quest alongside a young Rose McIver. She took part in Taika Waititi's debut feature film, Eagle vs Shark, in 2008. {She has gone on to become a regular collaborator with Waititi, {appearing in his second film, Boy, in 2010, and providing acting coaching for the young actors on set|with roles in his second film, Boy (2010),