About Freemasonry
What is Freemasonry?
One of the world's oldest and largest fraternal organisations. An organisation of men who adopt the fundamental principle of integrity, goodwill and charity as the foundations for an individual's life and character. A non-profit organisation that is heavily involved in supporting charity and community service. Comprised of men of good character with high ideals and worthwhile values who make a difference in the community
Freemasonry is not
A secret society
A religion or a substitute for religion
A benefit society to join for personal gain
A Freemasons Code
To share a concern and respect for human values, moral standards, the laws of society and the rights of individuals
To believe in a Supreme Being
To help other people through charity work and community service
To promote fellowship and goodwill amongst his fellow members
To regularly attend Lodge meetings and participate, with his family, in masonic activities
What Freemasonry Offers You
Freemasonry is about becoming a better version of yourself — and doing it alongside good men who share the same values.
Personal Growth
Lodge life is built around learning. Through Freemasonry's rich ceremonial traditions, members develop real, practical skills: public speaking, leadership, mentoring, and clear communication. Many members say joining changed how they carry themselves — professionally and personally.
The four pillars that guide a Freemason's development are:
Prudence — the wisdom to make sound decisions
Temperance — discipline and balance in all things
Fortitude — the confidence and resilience to face life's challenges
Justice — a fair and principled approach to every situation
Brotherhood & Belonging
Freemasonry brings together men from all walks of life — different careers, backgrounds, and beliefs — united by a shared commitment to integrity and goodwill. The friendships formed in Lodge are genuine and lasting. Many members describe their Lodge as a second family.
For men who value meaningful connection over surface-level socialising, Freemasonry offers something increasingly rare: a community where character matters more than status.
Intellectual Depth
Freemasonry has a rich philosophical tradition spanning centuries. Lodge meetings engage the mind as well as the spirit — drawing on symbolism, history, and ethical reflection in ways that reward curiosity and continued involvement. There is always more to explore, and always more to learn.
Charity & Community Impact
Freemasons don't just talk about making a difference — they do it. Community service and charitable giving are at the very heart of what it means to be a Freemason.
Across New Zealand, Freemasons contribute to causes that matter:
Education — Tertiary scholarships worth more than $200,000 are awarded annually to help young New Zealanders pursue their potential
Youth science — Sponsorship of the Royal Society of New Zealand's Powering Potential programme inspires the next generation of scientists
Medical research — Ongoing support for research into child health, degenerative brain diseases, and cancer
Community support — Grants and practical assistance for individuals and families in times of need
Recognition — Celebrating people and organisations in our communities who quietly do good
Here in Nelson, our Lodges continue that tradition — supporting local causes, recognising community contributions, and giving members a meaningful way to serve the region they call home.
Being a Freemason means your membership has impact beyond the Lodge room. It means the community around you is better for your involvement.
History
Our past, near and far
A proud tradition of brotherhood and service spanning more than 135 years in New Zealand, built on centuries of global Masonic heritage.
Freemasonry is a diverse and complex organisation. It is very old – its origins being lost in time. The first written evidence of its existence is dated from England in the 14th century. The Grand Lodge of England was formed by four Lodges in London in 1717. Grand Lodges were formed in Scotland and Ireland in the years following. Freemasonry subsequently spread around the world with the growth of the British Empire.
The Beginning
1717, London
On 24 June 1717, the members of four London lodges met at the Goose & Gridiron Tavern in London, and having, in their own words ‘put into the Chair the oldest Master Mason [now the Master of a Lodge]' they constituted themselves a Grand Lodge.
In this context, Grand is used to define that of the highest authority. From this meeting, all recognised Freemasonry throughout the world descends.
Global Expansion
1730s
Within decades, Freemasonry spread across Europe and to the colonies. The first lodges were established in France (1732), the American colonies (1733), and other parts of the world. This period saw the craft evolve from its operative masonic roots into a philosophical and charitable brotherhood.
NZ Freemasonry
1842, New Zealand
The first masonic meeting in New Zealand was held in Kororāreka (now Russell) in the Bay of Islands. Lodge of Ara No. 348 IC was the first lodge to be established in 1842. As settlement grew, Freemasonry played an important role in building communities across New Zealand, bringing together men of good character for mutual improvement and charitable works.
The first lodge to operate in this country was the New Zealand Pacific Lodge, opened at Port Nicholson (Wellington) in November 1842, under a provisional warrant issued by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Australasia.
Brethren in Auckland were equally active at the same time in seeking authority to found a lodge early in 1843 under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ireland.
GLNZ
1890, New Zealand
In 1890 the majority of lodges operating under the authority of English, Irish or Scottish Constitutions combined to form the Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand, more commonly known today as Freemasons New Zealand.
70’s to today
1970’s, New Zealand
The early 1970s saw the peak of New Zealand membership, attributed to an influx of ex-servicemen after World War Two.
There are currently 165 lodges in New Zealand, with a combined membership of approximately 4,553 in the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.
