Rachel House, (born 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, 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. Her Māori iwi (tribal) affiliations are Ngāti Mutunga, Te Ātiawa, and Ngāi Tahu. Career Acting {House attended the New Zealand national drama school, Toi Whakaari, graduating in 1992. She focused on stage performances with the Pacific Underground Theatre and the 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. In 1998, House made her screen debut in the short film Queenie and Pete. In 2002, she appeared 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 acted in Taika Waititi's first feature film, Eagle vs Shark. {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),