Rima Te Wiata

Born as Heather Rima Te Wiata MNZM on the 11th of October in 1963, Rima Te Wiata is a British-born New Zealand singer, comedian, and stage, film, and television actress. Her multi-faceted talent also earned her fame in Australia, particularly for her role as Janice Reid in the popular soap opera Sons and Daughters. Born to opera singer Inia Te Wiata and actress and writer Beryl Te Wiata in London, Rima moved back to New Zealand after her father's passing when she was just eight. In Auckland, she attended Epsom Girls' Grammar School. Rima's career took off with a stage debut in Auckland's Mercury Theatre's production of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. Post graduation from New Zealand Drama School in 1983, she went on a six month national tour, singing in Footrot Flats. Her screen debut came with Sons and Daughters in 1986. Rima also shone in a multitude of TV series including Shortland Street, The Billy T James Show, and Porters. Rima's impersonations of popular figures added further versatility to her repertoire. Australian sketch comedy show Full Frontal witnessed her talent for two years. Rima's stage and movie performances span roles in Cabaret, Little Shop of Horrors, Via Satellite, and Housebound, among others. Apart from acting, she released a self-titled jazz album and toured with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. In 2016, she won the New Zealand Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for Hunt for the Wilderpeople and in 2017, became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to film and television. Rima's contribution to New Zealand entertainment was further recognized with a Scroll of Honour from the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand in 2019.