Rachel Jessica Te Ao Maarama House ONZM, who was born on 20 October 1971, is a renowned actress and filmmaker from New Zealand. She is celebrated for her collaborations with Taika Waititi in his 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) 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. 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. Her early stage work included collaborations with the Pacific Underground Theatre and Auckland Theatre Company. Her acting portfolio includes major productions that have toured both locally 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. She played a role in Whale Rider, an award-winning film, in 2002. In 2005, she joined Maddigan's Quest as a series regular alongside a young Rose McIver. In 2008, House acted in Taika Waititi's first feature film, Eagle vs Shark. {She has maintained a strong professional partnership 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),