Freemasonry is a moral and ethical educational society, and a worldwide brotherhood. It has a purpose to teach by ritual and symbolism the building of good character. It is also a charitable benevolent society.

It is charitable in that its income is not used for private gain, but is devoted to the improvement and promotion of happiness and the well being of all mankind. Many major charities receive donations from funds raised by Freemasons and the other Masonic bodies. Additionally, lodges support many local community charities.
It is benevolent in that it teaches unselfish concern for the welfare of others as a duty, and exemplifies this by the relief of poor and distressed brethren and their needy widows and orphans.
It is educational in that it teaches a system of morality and brotherhood based on Sacred Law.
It emphasises the duty of man to be curious about the world, to develop his intellect and skill, to be just, to follow precepts of conscience and exercise self control, to be earnest and sincere.

Freemasonry demands loyalty to one's country and members are expected to obey every lawful authority, obey the laws of the country they live in - but in no way does this interfere with members civil rights to protest and seek legislative changes by lawful means.

Freemasonry demands a commitment of time.  Lodge meetings are held monthly on fixed dates, usually over eleven months of the year. A regular attendance is expected. There is a financial commitment, of joining fees, and thereafter an annual subscription to meet administrative costs.  In addition, calls are made on further charity to support the funds of Benevolence and other purposes.  The extent of charitable giving is a private matter, and is up to each individual member according to their means.

How old is Freemasonry?
The origins of Freemasonry date back many centuries, to the stonemasons who built the great cathedrals of Europe in the Middle Ages and even beyond.  Their working tools and the structure of their exclusive society of those days are still used symbolically in Freemasons Lodges and in the structure of the Craft.  The actual practices and procedures observed worldwide were formalised with the establishment of the United Lodge of England in 1717 and have not been extensively altered.

Wherever settlement and commerce have blazed a trail, Freemasonry has been quick to follow. This was the case with the establishment of Freemasonry in New Zealand. The first British settlement of New Zealand took place in 1814, when a missionary station was established in the Bay of Islands. Port Nicholson (Wellington) was established in 1840, and the first Freemason's Lodge (New Zealand Pacific Lodge) was opened in 1842.

What is Freemasonry not?
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor a political body. Nor is it an exclusive club. Freemasonry recognises the richness of the cultural beliefs of all men and excludes no man from membership on the basis of race, religion or politics. For this reason, Freemasons never discuss religion or politics.  Yet, membership strictly requires belief in God.
Freemasonry is not a secret society - more a society with secrets. It contains some things which are restricted to members alone. They mainly consist of modes of recognition.

What are the main aims and objectives of Freemasonry?
- To provide the harmony and well being of the human family under the sovereignty of God.
- To render practical help to the less fortunate.
- To demonstrate through the behaviour of its members how Masonic teachings add new dimensions to the enjoyment of everyday life.

What do Freemasons 'get out' of Freemasonry?
A large number of men who have joined Freemasonry has found that significant personal development has occurred as a result.  For example, training in ceremonial duties, experience in speech making, leadership, charitable activities and community service. Freemasons also have a sense of pride and of belonging to an organisation that exists all over the world. Freemasons are part of a great heritage, sharing an identity with the greatest men of the past, and of today. They share a special bond with men of all walks of life, creating life-long friendships with them.  They are members of an organisation that believes in tolerance; that lets each man think for himself and express his own opinions, without worrying about being wrong.

What do Freemasons do in the lodge?
Frequently the main purpose of a lodge meeting is to work one of the degree ceremonies of Freemasonry. The lodge is opened, usually followed by administrative business, and the reception of any visiting brethren. Then the Master and the officers of the lodge perform the degree ceremony. Each of the degree ceremonies involves ritual which dates back several hundred years. Occasionally instead of a degree ceremony, there may be a guest speaker to speak to the lodge about aspects of freemasonry. Often the meeting is followed by a refectory(or festive board) where the brethren can have a meal and socialise.

How do I join Freemasonry?
To find out more about becoming a Freemason, click HERE.