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 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) recognizing her contributions as both an actor and director. Early life House was born on 20 October 1971 in Auckland and was brought up in Kamo, Whangārei by 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 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, notable works such as Hone Kouka's Waiora, Carol Anne Duffy's The Worlds Wife, and Beauty and the Beast (a UK/New Zealand co-production). Her screen debut came in 1998 with the short film Queenie and Pete. In 2002, she acted in the award-winning feature film Whale Rider. where she starred with a young Rose McIver. She took part in Taika Waititi's debut feature film, Eagle vs Shark, in 2008. {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),