Thanks to a lot of people, not just myself, Whale Rider had an amazing impact emotionally, and people remember it. I count myself very lucky that all those doors were unlocked, I just had to open them.

I absolutely love being a mother. It's been a blessing. It's fun and it's hard, but it's absolutely amazing.

Thanks to a lot of people, not just myself, Whale Rider had an amazing impact emotionally, and people remember it. I count myself very lucky that all those doors were unlocked, I just had to open them.

I was able to grow up and do silly things and have a life with only a small amount of public scrutiny.

I thought 'I can't be an actor, I can't'. Then this film came up and it was like someone saying to me, 'You can, don't give up'.

It feels kind of strange knowing that I rule the whole planet of Naboo and I'm only thirteen. At first, my face—because it was really white—was a bit of a shock. But when the whole costume was put together and the headdress was put on, I really felt proud, like a Queen.

I've lived a fast-paced life, but I had the best childhood. I didn't miss out on anything by having my daughter at a young age.