Chelsie is a powerhouse of New Zealand stage and screen, carrying on a formidable creative lineage as the daughter of filmmaker Dame Gaylene Preston and musician Jonathan Crayford. Over her 20-year career, she has built a reputation for versatility, moving seamlessly between grit and grace.

Currently, Chelsie is entering an exciting new chapter as a filmmaker. This week marks the theatrical release of her debut feature film, Caterpillar (released May 14, 2026), which she wrote and directed.

Chelsie remains one of the most compelling and busy voices in the Australasian arts scene.