Rachel Jessica Te Ao Maarama House ONZM, born on 20 October 1971, is a New Zealand actress and director. She gained fame for her performances in Taika Waititi's films. She has earned many prestigious honors, 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 attended the New Zealand national drama school, Toi Whakaari, graduating in 1992. Her early stage work included collaborations with the Pacific Underground Theatre and 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. Her screen debut came in 1998 with the short film Queenie and Pete. In 2002, she was featured in the award-winning feature film Whale Rider. In 2005, she was a regular cast member in Maddigan's Quest alongside a young Rose McIver. In 2008, House was featured in Taika Waititi's first feature film, Eagle vs Shark. {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),