Rachel Jessica Te Ao Maarama House ONZM, who was born on 20 October 1971, is a renowned actress and filmmaker from New Zealand. She gained fame for her performances in Taika Waititi's films. She has received numerous accolades, including an Arts Laureate, NZ Order of Merit, 'Mana Wahine' from WIFT NZ, and Te Waipuna a Rangi (Matariki Awards) recognizing her contributions as both an actor and director. Early life She grew up in Kamo, Whangārei, with her adoptive Scottish parents, John and Sheila House. She has Māori iwi (tribal) connections to Ngāti Mutunga, Te Ātiawa, and Ngāi Tahu. Career Acting {House graduated in 1992 from the New Zealand national drama school, Toi Whakaari. She focused on stage performances 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. where she starred with a young Rose McIver. She took part in Taika Waititi's debut feature film, Eagle vs Shark, in 2008. {She continues to collaborate frequently 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),