History
Our past, near and far
A proud tradition of brotherhood and service spanning over 130 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.
1717, London
The Beginning
The organized form of Freemasonry we know today began with the formation of the first Grand Lodge in London. On June 24, 1717, four existing lodges met at the Goose and Gridiron Ale House in St. Paul's Churchyard to form the Grand Lodge of London and Westminster, later becoming the Grand Lodge of England.
1730s
Global Expansion
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.
1842, New Zealand
NZ Freemasonry
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 formally 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.
1890, New Zealand
GLNZ
The Grand Lodge of New Zealand, also known as Freemasons New Zealand, was formed in 1890.
1970’s, New Zealand
70’s to today
The early 1970s saw the peak of New Zealand membership, attributed to an influx of ex-servicemen after World War Two. Today there are 5518 Freemasons in 203 Lodges in New Zealand.
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