As a child, performed traditional Maori songs and dances

Acted in college productions of "South Pacific" and "Calamity Jane"

Moved to London to pursue acting career while in her 20s

Arrested for possession of heroin; served eight months in English women's prison

Wrote and starred in stage play "Te Awa I Tahutu"

Feature film debut, "Rapa Nui"

Breakthrough film role, Beth Heke in "Once Were Warriors" (released in USA in 1995)

Co-starred in "Dance Me to My Song"

Made cameo appearance reprising her role as Beth Heke in the sequel "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?"

Had featured role in "A.I.", directed by Steven Spielberg