NZ Freemason Magazine Issue 1 March 2023

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In this issue

From the Editor 2

Hot Off the Press 3

Grand Master’s Visits 3

From the Grand Master 4

News clips 6

From the Executive Director 8

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN NEW ZEALAND

Lodge Calliope No 252, Samoa – Installation and Centenary 10

Freemasons continue to support Camp Purple 11

Christmas cheer for older Brethren and Widows 12

Santa Claus really does fly! 12

Counties Hauraki District full steam ahead! 13

Old master returns 14

UPPER AND EAST COAST NORTH ISLAND FLOODS

Grand Master’s Appeal 15

Photo gallery 16

Freemasonry in Australia wants to help with floods 18

Watercolour to support upper North Island weather events 18

Freemasons enable Student Volunteer Army to clean up after floods 18

Māori Brethren Association of Freemasons 19

ANZAC Day 20

Powering Potential 22

MASONIC EDUCATION

ANZMRC Conference report 24

The Masonic Deck of Cards 25

The Working Tools of a Fellow Craft Freemason 26

Freemasons Foundation 28

Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games 30

Declaration of Principles of the Grand Lodge of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand 34

Masonic Villages Trust 36

Royal Arch 38

Welcome to our newest Freemasons 42

The Last Word! 44

Service Awards 45

FRONT COVER An aerial photo taken on February 14 shows flooding caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in Awatoto, near the city of Napier.

FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND National Office

Unit 2, 22 Tacy Street

Kilbirnie, Wellington 6022

PO Box 6439, Marion Square

Wellington 6141

New Zealand

Ph: +64 4 385 6622

Email: membership@freemasonsnz.org communications@freemasonsnz.org www.freemasonsnz.org

The New Zealand Freemason is the official journal of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand. Unless otherwise indicated, the opinions expressed and the advertising content are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy of Grand Lodge.

Articles appearing in this journal may be reproduced without permission provided acknowledgement of the source is made and a copy of the publication is forwarded to the Grand Secretary (secretary@freemasonsnz.org).

Queries or comments regarding subscription or distribution should be addressed to membership@freemasonsnz.org or the Executive Director, PO Box 6439, Marion Square, Wellington 6141. Queries and comments regarding content and advertising should be addressed to the Editor.

Contributions to the magazine, preferably in electronic form (e.g. MS Word documents) are greatly appreciated and should be of interest to a wide audience. Photographs should be high quality, preferably in jpg or tif format. Contributions may be edited in order to fit space available and to achieve overall balance. Letters to the Editor should not exceed 300 words. A guidance sheet for preparation of publishable material is available on request from the Editor. Contributions should be forwarded to communications@freemasonsnz.org

Freemasons NZ contributions to Duane Williams, Editor communications@freemasonsnz.org

Royal Arch contributions to Duane Williams, Editor gsn@royalarch.org.nz

Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the first day of February, May, August and November

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From the Editor

Climate Change and Changes in Freemasonry in New Zealand

Recent weather events have given cause to think about what actions may need to be taken to remediate climate change or how New Zealand adapts to what we need to do differently now and in the future.

We have seen the results of ‘putting off to tomorrow what could be done today’ by New Zealand, and in many ways, this applies to Freemasonry in New Zealand as well.

New Zealand has not future-proofed its infrastructure with catastrophic results throughout New Zealand and, more recently, in the Upper North, including Auckland and the East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand, where two-thirds of our population reside. Number eight wire is not good enough anymore.

Two parts need to go in hand in hand – work to remediate climate change and adaptation to mitigate the effects of climate change.

An organisation of just over 5,000 members needs to do things differently than we did in the past, in the areas of membership, structure, finance, property, etc., and not sit on our laurels which now bear no relationship to our ‘present’ and ‘future’ if we are to have a future.

Our Grand Master Jim Watt has instigated two reviews, in conjunction with the Board of General Purposes and the Grand Lodge Trustees, initially into ‘All of Governance’ and the ‘Grand Lodge Insurance Scheme’ with more work to come. This has been communicated through your Lodges and directly to you individually. The results of these reviews will be put to Special Communications and the Grand Communication over the next three years for members to decide.

The time for selfishness, and procrastination, she’ll be right, not my problem, and it’s their fault, is over, and we must all play our part and be the captains of our collective destiny, so we make our organisation ‘fit for purpose’ to support our lodges, our members, and our communities.

We do appear to be ‘holding the line’ despite the ‘baby boomer’ bump with more men joining Freemasonry than departing. Even those leaving us through resignation are declining as well, which means we are doing better at keeping our members happy and staying involved in Freemasonry.

Remember we’re all trying to make a difference in New Zealand.

Enjoy your Freemasonry in 2023!

VWBro Duane Williams MBE , KCLJ , JP, GSec

Duane delivering New Zealand Freemason magazines for Parliament.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

Special Communication 2023

Our Grand Master MWBro Jim Watt has called a Special Communication for Saturday, 18th November 2023.

He flagged this at the Grand Communication in 2022 and intends to call further a Special Communication in November 2024, and of course, the next Grand

Communication comes up in 2025.

Our organisation, The Grand Lodge of New Zealand (Freemasons New Zealand), needs to address, over the next few years, a number of issues that can longer be ignored.

Finances, Property, Membership, Governance,

etc., are some of the matters that need attention.

An ‘All of Governance Review’ is already underway, along with a ‘Review of the Grand Lodge Insurance Scheme’, both of which involve a number of Brethren from throughout the organisation.

Freemason lost in Cyclone Gabrielle: Bro Brendan Miller MM

Our sincere condolence to Helen, his partner and their son Henry and the family of the late Brother Brendan Miller. He was Canadian by birth, with much of his family, including his mother, back there. He was an Engineer. He was a member of Lodge Haeata No 272

and previously of Scinde Lodge No 5 and had been a Freemason since 2013. Lodge Almoners and The Freemasons Charity are providing support. There is also a Give a Little Page givealittle.co.nz/cause/ cyclone-recovery-forhenry-and-his-mum-helen

New Zealand Freemason magazine preferences

Freemasons New Zealand is supportive of sustainability and environmental responsibility and has now decided to move to a digital magazine available on the Freemasons New Zealand website www.freemasonsnz.org from March 2023 issue. It will, however, produce a limited run of printed magazines.

If you wish to receive your New Zealand Freemason magazine in printed form, let us know by emailing communications@freemasonsnz.org and we will place you on our mailing list for future magazines.

Brendan (middle) being invested with his Grand Fathers Master Masons apron and being congratulated by Bruce Greathead, Master of Scinde Lodge, in 2015.

Making a difference is the goal

Sitting in the sunshine on the shores of Lake Taupo, new Grand Master, Jim Watt, says it’s time for Freemasonry in New Zealand to do things differently.

It’s a Saturday morning and we’re filming footage for a ‘get to know the Grand Master’ video.

It’s part of a wider, behind-the-scenes film about Freemasonry in New Zealand that will be used in Freemasons NZ’s awareness and acquisition campaign that will launch soon.

The film covers a range of Brethren from all walks of life talking about their Freemasonry journey why they are Brethren and what they get out of the Craft.

It’s designed for public viewing to promote Freemasonry - to lift the veil, so to speak, and help

Kiwis better understand how Freemasons make a difference in our society, in our communities and to themselves as individuals.

And it’s that Making a Difference theme that Grand Master, Jim Watt, talks about passionately during his video interview.

But, his focus is not entirely on how we make a difference externally, through our charitable work for example.

Jim’s equally concerned to make a difference inside Freemasonry.

He’s keen to introduce initiatives, actions and systems that analyse the status quo of our organisation, give it a bit of a shake up and identify how things can be done better.

He particularly wants to know what the organisation,

as whole, can do to add more value to Brethren, to drive additional benefits for them and enhance the membership experience overall.

He wants to see younger, aspiring members getting ahead in their Lodges, taking on more responsibility and having more of a voice in the wider organisation.

And he wants to modernise and to create efficiencies that streamline our governance and management systems.

“There’s a sizeable work plan on the table and we’re setting ourselves some clear KPI s,” he says.

“It’s important that we measure progress so we know where we’re at and what we’ve still got to achieve.

“But more importantly, it’s important that Brethren see progress is being made. We need to get some runs on the board for our members.”

Jim’s Installation speech listed his main priorities:

Š Establishing a think tank of younger Brethren to give that generation more of a voice and a channel to contribute ideas that will help grow the organisation.

Š The introduction of an annual Grand Communication, akin to an AGM . Members can discuss the business and direction of the organisation and have more of a grass-roots say about how Freemasons NZ operates.

Š And two reviews into organisational governance and structure. This reflects Jim’s desire to drive efficiencies and to ensure the organisation is fit-for-purpose given the existing financial and membership landscape. Several months into the job and the initial planning for those priorities is well underway.

And given his first ‘reporting progress to Brethren’ opportunity comes in November this year at the first Special Grand Communication, he’s keen

All Australian and New Zealand Grand Masters, Deputy Grand Masters and Assistant Grand Masters and their partners at a reception at Government House, Hobart, Tasmania.

to make as much progress as possible.

Jim’s desire to drive change (that’s one of the C words he doesn’t want to use) boils down to the very simple belief that Freemasons NZ must focus on, and be all about, the members.

And far from being a lip service statement, he spends a lot of the video interview talking about the importance of ensuring members feel valued and how best to achieve that.

“It’s the Brethren in our Lodges who make us what we are as an organisation.

“And those Brethren have a choice. They don’t have to belong. They don’t have to give of their time, money and

energy to be a member of our organisation.”

Jim’s been self-employed all his working life. So, it’s natural for him to think in business-like terms.

“If you think about Freemasons NZ as ‘a business’ or a commercial entity, then you quickly understand our members are our customers.

“They’re the people we need to keep front and centre in our thinking because, in simple terms, they pay the bills.

“And, like any business knows, if you don’t value and look after your customers, they will cease being your customer. And you’ll cease to be in business.

“So, I want all our Brethren to know with certainty that they are very much front and centre in my mind and in the minds of my colleagues in our organisation’s leadership team.”

A second, but no less important, theme to come through Jim’s interview is the value he places on family and partners of Brethren.

He’s quite clear that he couldn’t have done what he’s done, in business, and after 38 years in Freemasonry, without the ongoing support of his partner, Penny.

“Freemasonry would not continue to exist without the support of our partners and families,” he told us.

“You cannot be so involved in an organisation like ours without having your partner’s support.

“Penny has no interest in physically attending one of our meetings. But she’ll attend things we go to on a social basis to lend her support, and I know I can rely totally on her.”

For her part, Penny says Freemasonry has helped Jim grow and grow as a person. “It’s been amazing,” she says. And that’s another way Freemasonry makes a difference, Jim says – by supporting men to be the best they can be.

“And the more we focus on supporting our members, their families and partners, the more we will do to make a difference in our society and in our communities,” he adds.

“That’s very definitely the goal.”

MWBro Jim Watt Grand Master

Jim and Penny on walkabout.

Jim on his Harley with his dog Roxy.

Waikato New and Young Freemasons Group

Our Grand Master Jim Watt, Deputy Grand Master Pat Cooney and Past Grand Master Graham Wrigley caught up socially with some of the Waikato New and Young Freemasons Group at their event during the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics Summer Games in Hamilton recently.

A new Kiwi Family

As happens throughout the country, new families make New Zealand their home by becoming New Zealand citizens.

The Master of Aorangi Timaru Lodge No 196, Nik Huddart, and his family did just that recently.

We welcome Nik, Sofia, Aliza (13), Idris (11), and Ismail (9) into the ‘kiwi’ fold.

New Zealand Freemason magazine slowly goes digital

Whilst making the magazine more available digitally, we will still be producing some hard copies for those who need it in New Zealand, e.g. Older Brethren, Widows, those in rural areas with a poor internet connection, etc. Especially for those who did not respond to requests to ‘Opt-In’ as appeared in the magazine, by Circular and by bulk email to all members with email addresses, we will be sending ten extra copies to all Lodge Secretaries to assist.

Find their Facebook page at fb.com/ WaikatoNewAndYoungMasons and see what they are up to!

Independent Odd Fellows

Hamilton Group

MEMBERS WANTED

Regular meetings held in Hamilton East Masonic Rooms 1st Friday of Each Month

Open to people of all genders. Prospective members must be 18 and over and believe in a Supreme Being Contact the Secretary: Hamilton.NZ.IOOF@Protonmail.com 07 834 0977

New Year Honours List

WBro ‘BJ’ Clark ONZM , QSM , JP, PGIG was honoured by King Charles III with an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM ) in the New Year Honours list for services to the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association. BJ is a member

of United Forces Lodge No 245, and has been a Freemason since 2009, he has served his Lodge three times as Master and was recently promoted to Past Grand Inner Guard.

2023 Waitangi Day Fundraising

The Concord Lodge No. 39 has successfully completed a charity fundraising for the PIPS (PregnancyInfancy-Parenting-Support – pips.co.nz). PIPS providing free, non-judgemental, client-focused practical and emotional support

during pregnancy and early parenting

The support from the Brethren and Ladies of The Concord Lodge is truly commendable, and the net profit of $736 is a significant contribution to the funding needs of PIPS . It is hoped that additional support will

Crossword solution

come from a Canterbury Masonic Charitable Trust. It was held at Bunnings, Riccarton where lots of foot traffic in the area, which allowed for more exposure and awareness of the cause. Promoting Freemasons

to the public, not only helped to raise funds for PIPS but also showcased the positive impact that community organizations like Freemasons.

Andre Boiser, Master, The Concord Lodge No 39

Potential candidate resource

The ‘Simple answers to leading questions booklet’ is available in hard copy (from membership@freemasonsnz.org) and online at: freemasonsnz.org/simple-answers-to-leading-questionsbooklet It is also a great resource for partners and families.

Grand Lodge is its members

Ihad the privilege of attending my very first Grand Installation in November last year. What a magnificent occasion and uplifting experience to see all the new officers of Grand Lodge in their regalia taking office and acknowledging their obligations to serve all the brethren who make up Grand Lodge.

It was certainly a reminder to me that the organisation is its members made up of real people sharing a common set of values and aspirations, coming together as Grand Lodge every three years to

celebrate this. So, when we refer to Grand Lodge we are talking about the members and not separate entity with an existence independent of the Brethren.

I was also invited to attend the Grand Communication, which traditionally precedes the Grand Installation, is a time where members have their say on important matters that set the future direction and running of the organisation.

The Grand Master’s message

The theme of having an organisation “run by its members for the benefit of its members”, is very much the corner stone of the Grand Master’s message at the Grand Installation and one that he is clearly seeking to put into practise. The decision to have a Special Communication in November this year and again in 2024 is a break with tradition that signifies the importance of members

having their say on the significant issues facing Freemasons New Zealand today.

Action not words

These are not just words. The Grand Master has laid out a very clear agenda on what we need to be focusing on and what will be coming back to the members for them to decide on at the Special Communications in 2023 and 2024.

This programme of work has already begun. You will have seen circulars, emails and social media postings about the establishment of the independent reviews of Governance and the Grand Lodge Insurance Scheme. These reviews are already underway, and their Terms of Reference have been made available to the members.

There are more initiatives on the way over the coming weeks, including a Masonic/ Operational review, the creation of the Youth Think Tank and so you can expect to see further communications on these soon.

It is your chance to be heard

These initiatives are great opportunity for brethren to have their say and provide valuable input into the thinking of the working groups and committees. Opportunities will be made available for members to engage in a structured way through surveys and other means. It is after all, your organisation. As custodians of the organisation for those who have gone before and for those yet to come after you all play a vital part in shaping the organisation to best suit what it needs to be.

National office’s focus

At National Office we aim to play our part in supporting the members and those appointed to represent you. Your focus will be our focus and your priorities will be ours, as set out by the Grand Master.

I have indicated previously, various strategic initiatives

that are in the pipeline over the next couple of years, including, the “Awareness and Acquisition Campaign”, the replacement of our Membership System and the upgrading of our National Website. These are still very much on our radar and much preliminary work has already been done. Given the importance of the workstreams outlined

earlier and our commitment to supporting these, we are having to reprioritise our resources over the coming months. This may have an impact on the delivery timeframes for these strategic initiatives. They will happen, but perhaps not as quickly as we had hoped.

Watch this space

As I said at the outset, I found the Grand Communication a magnificent spectacle. Unfortunately, not all our members, families and friends could be there to enjoy it. However, we do have something up our sleeve which we will be revealing in the very near future, so watch this space.

Mark Cassidy Executive Director

families and their communities.

universal and lasting happiness of all people. tolerance and acceptance, care, kindness, honesty and Freemasonry helps you develop the knowledge and mix of ceremony, fresh thinking and good works in only Freemasonry uses long-proven principles that better future.

Lodge Te Puni organises a variety show to fund bladder scanners

On Wednesday 5th March members of Lodge Te Puni presented two bladder scanners to the CEO of the Hutt Valley District Health Board. This was the result of a fundraising effort by the combined Lodges of the Hutt Valley.

Lodge Calliope No 252, Samoa –Installation and Centenary

Our Grand Master Jim Watt and a New Zealand delegation will be visiting Apia, Samoa, in late August / early September for Lodge Calliope No 252 Installation and Centenary celebrations on 1st September 2023.

Lodge Calliope No 252 is currently the only Lodge of The Grand Lodge of New Zealand based overseas. One previously in American Samoa closed a few years ago.

It was Constituted, Consecrated and Dedicated

A couple of Lodge members’ immediate family, who work for the DHB , had indicated that staff were fund raising for equipment that was in short supply for their Patients. The nurses of Mapu Unit and the Community Health Services had started selling cakes and undertaking other fundraising efforts to purchase a bladder scanner.

The members then brought the Units’ plight to the Lodges and a number of Brethren also indicated that they had been hospitalised recently and had to wait for the only scanner to become available for their treatment.

Lodge Te Puni decided to hold a Variety Show to raise funds to complete the purchase of at least one bladder scanner. WBro Ray Keenan approached many talented artists both within the

Craft and outside, including his very own successful singing son and his Group, ‘The Auzzie Boys.’ A plethora of acts was assembled, from juggling, dancing (ballroom, rock-n-roll, traditional Polish), musical acts and even the piping in of a Haggis with the traditional address. Audience participation was encouraged and, during intermission, food and drink was available for purchase.

Along with some very sought after prizes for raffles, the support for the show was outstanding. The money raised on the night was, with the help of The Freemasons Charity, able to purchase two bladder scanners valued at over $13,000.00 each.

As always it was a tight knit team, encompassing members of the Lodges from the Hutt Valley, wives and partners, and the nurses from the DHB that made this occasion the success it was. Thanks are due for the support of local businesses, individuals and the performers along with The Freemasons Charity for help in providing such necessary equipment for the health and wellbeing of the wider community.

Publicity for your community events – 3 steps

Ensure someone is responsible for publicity, arrange for a photographer, plan photographs, involve recipients and find a hook that would interest local media.

Seize good photo opportunities, concentrate on ‘action’ not ‘satisfaction’, get names for captions, make notes. If media comes ensure that they are looked after and opportunities set up.

Act quickly to spread the word, send press release and captioned high resolution photo, focussing on a newsworthy aspect to local media, district and divisional newsletter and NZ Freemason.

in August 1923 by the then Grand Master MWBro JJ Douglas.

Fono – Samoa’s parliament building, Apia. RNZ Pacific

WBro Mac McKenzie

W. Bro TR McKenzie, Master of Lodge Te Puni, with W. Bro Ray Keenan presenting Graham Dyer, Hutt Valley DHB CEO with one of the two portable bladder scanners, looking on is Pete Chandler Hutt Valley DHB COO. BELOW A bladder scanner.

Freemasons continue to support Camp Purple

C amp Purple is for young people with Crohn’s and Colitis (crohnsandcolitis.org.nz), and their annual camp was held in Living Springs in Christchurch in January 2023. Previous camps having been postponed due to Covid-19.

The Freemasons Charity and the Potter Masonic Trust provided funding of $40,000.

A good team of Freemasons and their

partners attended Carnival Day at the Camp, including our Grand Master Jim Watt, Deputy Grand Master Pat Cooney, Past Grand Master Graham Wrigley, President of the Board Paul Chappel and Southern Divisional Grand Master Bruce Pagan to see first-hand the fantastic work that Camp Purple does for these young people.

Additionally, Adrian Douglas Central Divisional Grand Almoner ran an

Masonic Car Stickers

Masonic Car Stickers (transfers) are available from Lodge Whakatane No 198 for $1 plus postage and handling $1.50.

Contact ldg.whk198@gmail.com or 027 422 2377

A great way to ‘Speak Up, Step Up, Show Up’ for Freemasonry!

information session for the parents of children with

Crohn’s and Colitis at the request of the organisation.

Christmas cheer for older Brethren and Widows

Many Lodges, Districts, and Almoners Associations throughout the country connect with older Brethren

Santa Claus really does fly!

Wellington Freemasons again organised the Annual Children’s Christmas event with Mick (Divisional Grand Master - Central), and Caroline Turner, who made their property at Pāuatahanui available and hosted the event with lots of fun for the young (and their parents!).

Santa arrived by helicopter with presents for everyone, and along with a BBQ and other activities with a fun day had by all.

Lodges and Districts throughout New Zealand regularly organise summer/ festive activities for children.

and Widows, especially at Christmas time.

The Auckland Almoners Association hosted a lunch

for approximately 90 in early December at the former Roskill Masonic Village, now Metlifecare Heights Village.

These have again restarted after an absence due to Covid-19.

John Kernohan.

Counties

Hauraki District full steam ahead!

Papakura, Franklin and Tuakau Lodges in the Counties Hauraki Masonic District organised and funded a District-wide Christmas BBQ for families and children at Glenbrook Vintage Railway.

Steam train rides (Waiuku to Glenbrook with a stop at their workshops), Family BBQ , Bouncy Castle and a visit from Santa with presents were all part of the day.

Phil Wagener, Past Grand Warden, was the train driver, BBQ Trailer and Marquee supplied by Crime Watch Papakura and assistance from local suppliers and, of course, Santa.

Lodges and Districts throughout the country usually have some summer holiday activities.

Old master returns

Lodge Waitakerei had the pleasure of receiving TV personality Jude Dobson and her husband Graeme at their December meeting in 2022.

Jude came to our lodge to present back to the lodge the photo of our Past Master WBro C.W. Blackwell 1921–22. The photo was in the house she brought 20 years ago in Mt Eden and was hanging over the fireplace for all that time, but after they did some renovation work they felt he should come back home to the lodge.

The conversations started with Jude back in 2021 but due to Covid restrictions the timing did not work out on returning WBro C.W. Blackwell but eventually we managed to organise a date for our December meeting so he was returned home within 100 years. We made the evening a harmony night with wives/partners and families invited as well and it was a great night for all.

WBro Charles William Blackwell Master of Lodge Waitakerei 170 1921–22.

Partners and families.

FROM LEFT Richie DeVera Master of the Lodge, Jude Dobson, Graeme Dobson, Ray Wilson, Past Master.

James L Watt GRAND MASTER

20 February 2022

Brethren, UPPER AND EAST COAST NORTH ISLAND FLOODS APPEAL

Our thoughts are with all who have been affected by the flooding associated with Cyclone Gabrielle in the Upper and East Coast of the North Island.

The Freemasons Charity and Potter Masonic Trust is making additional funds available as well as a further donation to the Student Volunteer Army for clean up work We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds and provide whatever support is needed.

Lodges and individuals are also encouraged to contribute, and they may credit The Freemasons Charity 06 0501 0515360 00 Reference to include ‘Flood’ and ‘Lodge Number’ or ‘Member Name’ to enable a receipt to be issued for the donation

Lodges may be aware of members who have been affected and should try to ascertain any support they may need. Any requests for assistance should flow from your Lodge Almoner to your District Charity Officer to your Divisional Grand Almoner. Lodges may also wish to collaborate with community organisations supporting the relief efforts with a Lodge Project or a combination of Lodges with a District Project, which will be eligible fo the usual TFC subsidy and assistance. Again, have a conversation with your District Charity Officer or Divisional Grand Almoner. Members may also wish to volunteer with community groups helping those affected.

For any queries, please contact your Divisional Grand Almoners VW Bro Geoff Parry divisionalgrandalmonernorthern@gmail.com , VW Bro Adrian Douglas divgalmcentral@gmail.com and VW Bro Dai Eveleigh divisionalgrandalmonersouthern@gmail.com

As previously advised, we know that the New Zealand Government and their departments, local authorities, insurers, and community organisations are already making a significant effort, and as Freemasons we will continue to provide assistance where able Thanks.

Yours fraternally,

Jim Watt Grand Master

The Grand Lodge of New Zealand

Upper and East Coast

A satellite image showing Cyclone Gabrielle over New Zealand on February 13, 2023.

A man stacks up sandbags to protect a warehouse before the arrival of Cyclone Gabrielle in Auckland, New Zealand, on February 12, 2023.

A storm-damaged house in Titirangi, a suburb of West Auckland, on Monday 13th Feb. The devastation experienced in Hawkes Bay is one of New Zealand’s worst affected areas.

North Island floods

18th February – relief response comes in after thousands left displaced In Hawkes Bay.

A helicopter locates a yacht in the Hauraki Gulf off North Island with a solo sailor on board on February 14.

An aerial photo taken on February 14 shows flooding caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in Awatoto, near the city of Napier.

A resident wades through a large landslide on Domain Crescent in Muriwai following Cyclone Gabrielle on February 14th.

Fire Fighter aids clean-up operation in Hawkes Bay.

Freemasonry in Australia wants to help with floods

The Grand Masters of each Australian State expressed to our Grand Master Jim Watt at the Grand Installation in Tasmania last weekend their deep regret at the recent loss of life and destruction. They also indicated their support

Freemasons enable Student Volunteer Army to clean up after floods

The Freemasons Charity and the Potter Masonic Trust have provided funding to the Student Volunteer Army to assist with the clean-up in Auckland and the East Coast.

to Freemasons New Zealand efforts, when determined, for people affected by the massive rain and cyclone events in the Upper and East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand.

Watercolour to support upper North Island weather events

The Master of The Coronation Lodge No 127 in Wellington, Ariel Reyes, has produced a watercolour painting to help raise funds for those who need support.

Ariel put it on Trade Me, and the $350 paid by a masonic winner (who was

originally from Hastings) has been gifted to Lodge Heretaunga No 73, which with the potential of a 1 for 1 Subsidy from The Freemasons Charity with the total funds raised passed on to the Hawkes Bay Disaster Relief Trust for distribution.

Grand Masters, Deputy Grand Masters and Assistant Grand Masters at the recent Grand Installation in Hobart, Tasmania.

Māori Brethren Association of Freemasons

Our aim as an Association is to foster Brotherhood and Fellowship amongst Māori brethren by the principles set down in Freemasonry. We will achieve this by visiting Lodges and conducting ceremonies on brethren with Māori whakapapa when invited by the Lodge.

Māori Brethren Association

Silver Anniversary Hui

A small gathering of Māori brethren met at the Te Hotu Manawa O Rangitane O Manawatu Marae in Palmerston North early December 2022 to recognise the 25th anniversary of the formal establishment of the Association and to review the Kaupapa and our future direction.

The Association, like many organisations has waned in membership as leaders have passed and we have all become busy. Never-the-less in the last quarter of 2022 a revisualisation has occurred through the identification of Māori brethren, at Lodge and District meetings and the Grand Installation, as well as via various social media.

To build on this momentum, decisions were made at the Hui to:

Š Identify and support Māori brethren in their advancement in the Craft by visiting and if invited, participation in their ceremony. In particular, participating in delivering the Second (Fellowcraft) Degree.

Š Deliver “The Charge to a Māori Master” on his Installation into the Chair of King Solomon. (NB: Previously incorrectly referred to as “The Working Tools of a Māori Master”).

Š Establish a network of Regional representatives to facilitate activities and connect with Māori brethren.

Š Continue and build awareness of the

Š To consider what may be appropriate as a logo, banners, and a lapel pin.

Š Embrace what our Aroha and Tīkanga Māori an bring to Freemasonry.

are prepared to invite the Association to participate. Keep in touch via maorifreemasons@ gmail.com or facebook.com/ MaoriFreemasonsNZ

Regional (Ngā Kaiwhakarite) contacts

(Please use above email or Facebook for contact)

Te Ika-a-Māui (North Island)

Š Ki te Raki (North) Bros Chris Bradley & Bro Caleb Sadler.

Š Ki te Rāwhiti (East) Bro Jozef Horopapera

Š Ki te Manawa (Central) Bro Elliot Tuck.

Š Ki te Tonga (South) VWBro Darren Shadbolt GSuptW

Š Ki te Uru (West) Bro Michael Bailey

Te Waipounamu (South Island)

Š Ki Runga (Upper) VWBro Ray Keenan DistGM

Š Ki Waenganui (Central) WBro Dr Karaitiana Taiuru.

Š Ki Wharetonga (Southern) Bro Matias Sainsbury.

WBro Ken Stokes PG Tyler, Chairman (Taimana) of the Association

Association via visits, engagement with Lodges, and our Social media presence.

Invitation

Our desire to support Māori brethren on their Masonic journey is reliant on knowing a person has Māori heritage and that they and the Lodge

ANZAC Day

Lodges and Freemasons will again be attending Services up and down New Zealand. Many Freemasons served in both WWI and WWII and other conflicts over the last 100 or so years, and many paid the ultimate price.

ANZAC Day is embedded in our New Zealand DNA and collective memory.

History

Anzac Day is observed on 25 April. It commemorates New Zealanders killed in war and honours returned and serving servicemen and women.

Anzac Day dates

1916 – Anzac Day gazetted as a half-day holiday

1921 – Anzac Day becomes a full public holiday

1939 – Dawn ceremony widely included in New

Zealand Anzac Day commemorations for the first time

1949 – Legislation passed preventing Anzac Day from being ‘Mondayised’

1966 – Current Anzac Day Act liberalises activities allowed after 1 p.m. on Anzac Day

2013 – When 25 April falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the Monday will now be a public holiday

2020 – All Anzac Day public ceremonies in New Zealand cancelled because of COVID -19 coronavirus pandemic

The date marks the anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand

soldiers – the Anzacs – on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915. The aim was to capture the Dardanelles and open a sea route to the Bosphorus and the Black Sea. At the end of the campaign, Gallipoli was still held by its Ottoman Turkish defenders.

Thousands lost their lives during the Gallipoli campaign: 87,000 Ottoman Turks, 44,000 men from France and the British Empire, including 8500 Australians. To this day, Australia also marks the events of 25 April. Among the dead were 2779 New Zealanders, about one in six of those who served on Gallipoli.

They may have ended in military defeat, but for many New Zealanders then and since, the Gallipoli landings signalled that New Zealand was becoming a distinct nation, even as it fought on the other side of the world in the name of the British Empire.

Anzac Day was first observed in 1916. The day has gone through many changes since. The ceremonies that are held at war memorials up and down New Zealand, and in places overseas where New Zealanders gather, are modelled on a military funeral and remain rich in tradition and ritual.

The Ceremonies

The Anzac Day ceremony of 25 April is rich in tradition and ritual. It is a form of military funeral and follows a specific pattern. The day’s ceremonies have two major parts: one at dawn and another later in the morning.

The dawn service

A typical commemoration begins with a pre-dawn march by returned service personnel to the local war memorial. Military personnel and returned servicemen and women form up about the memorial, joined by other members of the community. Pride of place goes to war veterans.

A short service follows, with a prayer, hymns and a dedication that concludes with the fourth verse of Laurence Binyon’s ‘For the fallen’:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.

The Last Post is then played, followed by a minute›s silence and the reveille. A brief address follows, after which the hymn ‘Recessional’ is sung. The service concludes with a prayer and the singing of the national anthem.

The Anzac parade

Another ceremony takes place later on the morning of 25 April. Returned service personnel wearing their medals march behind banners and standards.

The veterans are joined by other community groups, including members of the armed forces, the Red Cross,

cadets, and veterans of other countries’ forces.

The march proceeds to the local war memorial. Another service takes place there, and representatives of various organisations and members of the public lay wreaths. This service is a more public commemoration than the dawn service. It is less intimate and less emotional. The speech, usually made by a dignitary, serviceman or returned serviceman or woman, may stress themes of nationhood and remembrance.

After these services, many of the veterans retire to the local Returned and Services’ Association (RSA ) club or a

hotel, where they enjoy coffee and rum (after the dawn service) and unwind after an emotionally and, for elderly veterans, physically exhausting event. At the end of the day, the ceremony of the retreat is performed.

Powering Potential A higher science

reemasons New Zealand has worked with the Royal Society Te Apārangi for over 30 years with youth scientific programmes like Powering Potential. Also, did you know there is a connection between The Royal Society and Freemasonry dating back to the 18th century in the UK?

F

throughout New Zealand came together in Wellington with mentors involved in scientific research to help solve important challenges facing New Zealand and the world. They will be taking their love of science into their tertiary education.

Programme, and our Grand Master Jim Watt closed it three days later after a lot of hard work from the groups of students preparing 10 presentations, and Jim Watt Grand Master presented certificates to all participating.

60 top high school science students from

Our Deputy Grand Master Pat Cooney, as chair of The Freemasons Charity, opened the Powering Potential

One of the presenting teams was called the Treemasons!

(we can guess what they were presenting on).

Powering Potential students and their high schools

Allwin Christopher Glendowie College

Amita Ram Epsom Girls’ Grammar School

Anatol Coen Mount Albert Grammar School

Anchal Sharma Whakatane High School

Anjali Nandedkar Hillcrest High School

Anoushka Alate Palmerston North Girls High School

Anthony Shen Glendowie College

Ash Thomson Hillcrest High School

Bill Campbell Logan Park High School

Dylan Hiini Pompallier Catholic College

Ebony Kalin Hawera High School

Eliabel Legrand St Hildas Collegiate School, Dunedin

Emily Cropp Cashmere High

Emily Templeton Dunstan High School

Evielyn Pearce Garin College

Fatima Tayyib Zayed College for Girls

Gianna Butler Ashburton College

Grace Sayer Karamu High School

Henry Wilson Glendowie College

Imogen Holsford Iona College

Isabelle Booth Whangaparāoa College

Jessica Walton St Peters School, Cambridge

Jomana (Juju) Moharram Otago Girls High School

Josh Hogarty Hillcrest High School

Kaita Hummel-Jibiki Tawa College

Kate McIntosh Long Bay College

Katie Kinnaird Waitaki Girls High School

Katie Stephens Reporoa College

Kristine Escueta Otago Girls High School

Lara Shierlaw Ashburton College

Leilani Romano-Poasa Tamaki College

Max Tunnicliffe Western Springs College

Maz Cameron Dunstan High School

Michael Yao Auckland Grammar Sch

Mikayla Furness Matamata College

Molly Ellery Trident high School

Neocris Moncada Matamata College

Nora Paicu Columba College

Pippiana Voakes Kerikeri High School

Princya Karumalil Marist College

Prisha Kadakia Epsom Girls’ Grammar School

Ronan Melville Otago Boys’ High School

Sage Garrett Hillcrest High School

Sam Jack Hillcrest High School

Sam Wright Glendowie college

Samuel Crump Glendowie College

Simon Langham Tawa College

Siv Ear Aorere College

Sophia Bolton Sacred Heart Girls College

Stella Anderson Mount Albert Grammar School

Tara Stevens Sacred Heart Girls College

Thomas Jenson St Johns College

Una Drayton Ruapehu College

Wei Tian Teo Macleans College

Wiseson Kuang Mountainview Highschool

You Ran Wang Hillcrest High School

Tomas Toniollo Glendowie College

Nicolas Powell Kerikeri High School

ANZMRC Conference

Dunedin, 24–26 November 2022

All present were welcomed to the Sixteenth Biennial Conference which was opened by the Immediate Past President, Bro Kerry Nicholls (NZ), KL, with a thank you and warm welcome to all attending.

“Welcome to all to our belated 15th Biennial Conference of the Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research Council. This has been a long time coming due to a ‘word’ that we will not mention at this conference during the next three days

Our sincere and heartfelt thanks are extended to the Research Lodge of Otago No 161 and to all who made this possible. Many thanks are attributable to our convener Bro Glenn Summerhayes and W.M Bro Grant Watson.

During this conference whilst informal events are taking place such as break time all will be referred to as ‘Brother’ to avoid any embarrassment but during formal proceedings appropriate Masonic protocols apply.

Happiness is the key to this conference and big smiles all round. Due to our smaller numbers this will be an intimate conference that will be successful and very enjoyable to all.

“Dunedin Golf Club at Balmacewen this

year is celebrating its Sesquicentennial or 150 years – being the oldest Golf Club in the Southern Hemisphere and outside of England. David Stirk wrote a book in 1987 entitled – Golf – the History of an Obsession, which was reviewed in the Otago Daily Times of 23 September 1987.

In a research paper available in the Masonic Digital Library from Research Lodge of Otago - Vol 13, No 6 March 2001 – the Research Lodge Librarian drew attention to the fact that the author “was responsible with his collaborator, the late Ian Henderson, for uncovering the most significant new

of the Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research Council who have passed to the Grand Lodge Above as well as others who were in their hearts and thoughts –Brothers Peter Bindon, Colin Heyward, Keith Knox, Peter Verrall and Peter Wise.

The floor was then given to our Conference Convener (Bro Glenn Summerhayes and he welcomed our Grand Master - MWBro Jim Watt to officially open the Conference, bearing in mind a week into the new position this was his second official task. An outline for the future direction and intentions of Freemasonry and looking after of our new members

created a life beyond the Craft in Sydney, Swedish Rite Freemasonsonry, Commemorative Crusader Orders in Freemasonry, 1798 Irish Rebellion to name but a few.

There were 7 Freemasons presented with Kellerman Lecturer titles at this Conference.

At this conference the new Committee decided it would work out the process and timing for the next speaker tour and also define the rules and criteria for the awarding of the title Fellow of the ANZMRC

fact about golf to be published in recent years, that the formalising of the game into clubs was by the initiative of the freemasons.”

“Is there potential here for further research and a way forward – I leave it up to each and every one of you.

All present were asked to stand for a moments silence as a mark of respect in honour of five stalwarts

was the theme.

There were over the 3 days 11 sessions focussing on various papers presented and discussions ranging from – Matariki, Masonic Pillars –Rev. William Ronaldson and Charles John Ronaldson, Frenchmen, Chaps & Rogues Freemasonry in Victoria, Some mid-19th Century Freemasons and how they

There were suggestions that the reduced attendances would make for a disappointing conference but, such was not to be the case and the presentations, events and outings were all outstanding successes. Congratulations and thanks to Bros Glenn, Grant, Alan and associates for putting on a great conference.

The 2024 Conference is being held at the Sydney Masonic Centre in October 2024 so prepare now for you to present a paper.

Kerry Nicholls Vice President. www.anzmrc.org

Our Grand Master enjoying meaningful dialogue with our Australian Visitors.

Attendees 2022 Conference – Saturday 26 Nov 2022.

Grand Master Jim Watt opening the conference.

The Masonic Deck of Cards

One evening a Lodge Mentor retired with a young Brother who could not witness a ceremony in a higher degree.

The Mentor produced a pack of playing cards and said to the younger Brother, “Did you know that you can learn a great deal about Freemasonry from these?”

“No, indeed,” said the young Brother. “What can they teach me?”

“They are useful for improving your memory,” said the Mentor. “Look here, now.”

The ACE it reminds me of the Great Architect of the Universe.

The TWO reminds me of the two great pillars at the entrance of King Solomon’s Temple

The THREE remind me of the three who rule the Lodge, The Master, The Senior Warden and the Junior Warden.

The FOUR reminds me of our progression in the Craft Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master Mason, and Worshipful Master.

The FIVE reminds me of the five noble orders of Architecture, Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian and Composite.

The SIX reminds me of the six principles of our order, Brotherly Love, Relief, Truth, Faith, Hope, and Charity.

The SEVEN reminds me of the seven liberal arts and sciences, Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric, Arithmetic, Music, Geometry, and Astronomy.

The EIGHT reminds me that we have members from all faiths. Muslims believe that there are eight paradises, signifying God’s mercy. In Buddhism, eight is a lucky number.

The NINE reminds me of the working tools. Three for each of the three degrees.

The TEN was the Pythagorean symbol of perfection or completeness.

The JACK reminds me of the word we share in the Fellow Craft Degree.

The QUEEN reminds me of the widow who bore the famous son and Queen of Sheba who visited King Solomon.

The KING reminds me of King Solomon, the principal figure of our order, and our current Sovereign.

There are TWELVE face cards that remind me of the twelve tribes of Israel And the twelve signs of the Zodiac.

There are TWO COLOURS which remind me of Night and Day. Good and Evil.

There are FOUR SUITS that remind me of the cardinal virtues - Prudence, Temperance, Fortitude and Justice.

“I am most grateful,” said the young Brother. “I will never forget all that you have said. But tell me, there are two cards that you haven’t yet explained.”

“Oh, those,” said the Mentor. “Those are the two JOKERS who Proposed and Seconded you after telling you that it would take no more than one evening a month of your time!

Jack Hamilton / Unsplash

The Working Tools of a Fellow Craft Freemason

The Square

The Square is the symbol of morality, truthfulness and honesty. It symbolizes accuracy, not even varying by a single degree. When we part upon the Square, we go in different directions, but in full knowledge that our courses in life will be going according to the angle of the Square (which means in the right direction), until we meet again.

The square is unwavering in its form, with equal dimensions on either side. This emblem for Freemasons represents the constant requirement to treatment their fellow man with integrity and honesty regardless of race, ethnicity, or previous actions. In Freemasonry, “the square is the symbol of regulated life and actions. It is the masonic rule for correcting and harmonizing conduct on principles or morality and virtue.” Thus, the square is a reminder that the ethical principle of beneficence should be unwavering in the physician-patient relationship.

The Level

Physicians have an obligation to be truthful in the assessment and prognosis of a patient’s medical condition. Such honesty empowers patients to take charge of their own health decisions, evaluate their goals, and develop a greater sense of control and peace facing the vast unknowns of their disease. Yet there are some circumstances when the truth may conflict with physicians’ responsibility to maintain beneficence, nonmaleficence, and the autonomy of their patients. For example, debate continues on whether patients with cognitive

deficits or dementia should be told the full truth, given their inability to comprehend or make informed health care decisions for themselves. Although there are other circumstances where being truthful may harm a patient, physicians should always seek to bring truth and openness to a patient despite the inconvenience, suffering, or potential conflicts that may arise. When our medical decisions provide patients beneficence, the physician and patient benefit from the exchange, growing deeper in love, trust, and respect.

For masons, the square embodies the hope and promise of living an honest life, not only for the individual but for society and the grand scope of human history. For physicians, the square is a reminder that temptations to avoid difficult situations, delivering a poor prognosis, or being honest should never compromise their ability to preserve a patient’s beneficence, nonmaleficence, and autonomy.

The Level is a symbol of equality. We do not mean equality in wealth, social distinction, civic office, or service to mankind; but, rather, we refer to the internal, and not the external, qualifications. Each person is endowed with a worth and dignity which is spiritual, and should not be subject to man-made distinctions.

In the EA degree, masons are taught that a person is qualified to be made a mason by their internal and not external characteristics. For Freemasons, all human beings are viewed as equal before God; therefore, individuals’ social, political, or economic standing in society should not dictate their worthiness.

The fellowcraft degree expands on this lesson with the level, which emphasizes the equality between all members of society regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity. Although people do not possess equal ability, gifts, and talents, Freemasons believe human

beings should be treated with equal respect and opportunity to thrive. In the medical profession, the level represents the beneficence with which physicians and health care professionals should treat their patients. In the medical community, physicians should treat

each patient equally and judge, if so lightly, based on the person’s character rather than physical appearance, sexual identity, or other external qualifications. For example, many patients with limited proficiency in the English language are among the most disempowered and disadvantaged, which increases the cost of care,

mortality, and morbidity. Clinicians who are aware of these inequalities and have access to interpreters and other health care resources for these populations improve health care outcomes and solidarity in minority communities. By leveling their minds from biases, physicians can better empathize, connect, and improve the quality of care given to patients.

Despite improvements in social, political, and

The Plumb

racial equality, the medical profession still has issues related to the prevalence of minority groups and women in the profession. With the rise in globalization, inequalities among minority groups in several countries have risen given the increased demand and resources needed for physicians to address the complex medical needs of these communities. However, physicians can unshackle

themselves from destructive thinking and better prepare their minds to live a larger life dedicated to service, love, and compassion. In this manner, the level is a constant reminder for physicians to be unbiased, fair, and equal with all their patients while remaining diligent in their civic duty and charitable to all human beings. The daily “leveling” of the mind through meditation, reflection, and dialogue with different social, ethnic,

religious, or political groups can remind physicians of the importance of remaining equal toward every patient. The practice reminds physicians that despite their status and skill, they share a common bond with their patients in their mortality, frailties, and journey to live peacefully and in harmony with all people.

The Plumb is a symbol of uprightness of conduct. By understanding the Plumb, a Mason is to judge his Brothers by their own standards and not those of someone else. When the Plumb line is thought of in this way, it becomes a symbol of an upright life and of the conscience by which each person must live. This idea is closely tied to the concept of Justice. For, in truth, Justice is giving another man his due.

In Freemasonry, the plumb reminds masons to equally apply their own standards of justice and moral character to themselves and society. The tool is meant to prevent hypocrisy while encouraging Freemasons to engage society as a means of maintaining social order and moral conduct. Furthermore, the plumb admonishes all Freemasons at all stages of life to live a life in which any person will know “how he will act, and what he will do, because he stoops to nothing mean or petty, a debt of a few cents is just as sure to be paid as one of a thousand

dollars.” According to the plumb, a physician can practice justice through providing care equally to all who need it, distributing resources properly based on need, providing equal access to care, maximizing the benefits of available treatment, respecting the autonomy of patients, and limiting the waste of government funding and other medical resources.

A just physician impacts not only patient care but the larger

scale of social, political, and economic trends in society. Justice can be practiced through the physician-patient relationship and the physician’s commitment to fight for a patient’s access and affordability to medical care. Specifically, this activity is directly related to a physician’s professionalism, which includes maintaining the primacy of patient welfare, patient autonomy, and social justice. In this manner, the plumb reminds

physicians to act with proper conduct within and outside the clinic, remembering that their calling is one that represents the central ideals of society and the pursuit of health and happiness. Physicians are held to a higher standard given the sacred nature of their work dealing with patients at their moment of weakness or at death’s door. Overall, the plumb reminds clinicians that their actions, standards, and ethics extend beyond the clinic into society and with their creator, with whom they will be held accountable for every decision.

Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra performs alongside 450 South Auckland students!

In November 2022, 478 students from 19 schools came together in Manukau to perform with professional APO musicians, thanks to the support of the Freemasons Foundation. The first event culminated in a combined performance of Rossini’s William Tell Overture and Strauss’ Blue Danube Walz.

“A group from Sistema Whangārei travelled for over three hours to join us!” said Thomas

Hamill, Director APO Connecting. “The students made huge progress and all left filled with the joy of playing alongside a mass orchestra.”

NZ Assistant Conductor-in-Residence Leonard Weiss also said “everyone felt proud of their achievement, to rise to a new peak in their music-making and be aware of the constant unspoken dialogue that occurs in any ensemble.”

Te Motunui Epa

The Freemasons Foundation is proud to have supported the distribution of this stunning book to 500 secondary school libraries throughout New Zealand. Published by Bridget Williams Books, the book examines how five exquisitely carved panels journeyed across the world - and changed practices and international law on the protection and repatriation of stolen cultural treasures.

Hidden in swamps after almost 100 years of war, the five carved totara panels were taken to New York, Geneva, London and finally to the Royal Courts of Justice.

Rachel Buchanan presents a vivid, richly illustrated narrative, drawing on newly released government records to tell a story of art, ancestors and power.

A brand refresh for the Foundation

In 2022, the Freemasons Foundation commissioned a refresh of our brand to modernise our look, to better express the positive nature of our charitable work and to reflect the values that are important to us. Brand specialists Fuse Creative developed a solution that conceptually represents the Foundation’s place in the woven fabric of our community.

The project integrated both traditional and modern aspects of the Foundation’s charitable activities, as well as aspirations and goals set by the partnerships already established. The visual logo mark, tagline and proposition now enables broader

audiences to positively recognise and identify with Freemasons Foundation objectives. The fresh and vibrant brand expression will expand across our website, stationery and communications to attract and engage audiences on many levels.

We now feel we are visually expressing our ‘place’ in the fabric of our community - while also demonstrating traditional Freemasonry values - gaining positive recognition for the charitable support we provide to community related projects - and also helping current and prospective Freemasons in New Zealand to feel proud of our contributions.

Proudly supporting the Auckland Writers Festival Schools Programme and Pukapuka Adventures

Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games

Two years in the making, and finally, the official opening in Hamilton, where the games ran from 8–12 December

2022. Freemasons New Zealand, The Freemasons Charity and Lodges contributed $300,000 and

supplied over 40 volunteers at these games. Our Grand Master Jim Watt, Deputy Grand Master Pat Cooney,

Past Grand Master Graham Wrigley, along with a couple of staff from the National Office, attended various

events and staffed the Freemasons New Zealand marquee. All in all a gratifying experience for everyone

involved the athletes, supporters, volunteers, Special Olympics and Freemasons New Zealand.

The Special Olympics New Zealand national summer games were full of fun and excitement. Our Freemasons

New Zealand team, including Jim and Penny, Graham, Jeff and Mark (can you spot them?), got 'stuck in' helping

where we could. From volunteering to delivering medals to the hard-working athletes – it was an honour

and privilege to support our partners at the National Summer Games.

Declaration of Principles of the Grand Lodge of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand

Freemasonry as a Society is Charitable – its resources are devoted to the welfare and happiness of Mankind.

Benevolent – believing that the good of others is of primary concern.

Communal – it promotes ethical conduct and responsible attitudes amongst its members, and attitudes of heart and mind which will help them to practice charity and goodwill to all.

Educational – its authorised ceremonials teach a system of morality and brotherhood based upon Universal Truth.

Reverent – it acknowledges a Supreme Being, Creator of the Universe whom all men should revere. The Volume of the Sacred Law is open whenever a Lodge is in session and is a constant reminder of that fundamental duty.

Social – it encourages the meeting together of men for the purposes of fellowship, instruction and charity.

Many of our Freemasons Centres have this Declaration displayed within their facilities, and they are also found within our Book of Constitution. It is a constant reminder to all of us of the principles behind Freemasonry.

To these several ends

It teaches – and stands for reverence before the Supreme Being; truth and justice; brotherhood and practical benevolence; an open-minded attitude and the liberty of the individual, civil, religious and intellectual.

It charges – each member to be true and loyal to the government of the country to which he owes allegiance and to obey the laws of any State in which he may be.

It believes –

That these objectives are best accomplished by recognising a broad-base upon which men of every race, country, sect and opinion may unite.

The adoption of a restrictive platform other than one based on true human worth is unacceptable to Freemasonry.

Holding these beliefs, and in the knowledge that the true Freemason will act in civil life according to his individual judgement and the dictates of his conscience.

This Grand Lodge Affirms

Its continued adherence – to that ancient and approved rule of Freemasonry which forbids the discussion in Masonic meetings of creeds, politics or other topics likely to excite personal animosities.

Its dedication – to those basic Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth; and by their consistent practice, the lessening of the aggregate of human suffering and the promotion of the true and lasting happiness of Mankind.

Its conviction – that it is not only contrary to the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, but dangerous to its unity, strength, usefulness and welfare, for Masonic bodies to take action or attempt to exercise pressure or influence for or against any legislation, or in any way to attempt to procure the election or appointment of government officials, or to influence them, whether or not members of the Fraternity, in the performance of their official duties.

Doors soon to open at new-look Woburn Masonic Care

Work was proceeding apace, as we went to print, to finalise construction at the new Woburn Masonic aged care facility in Lower Hutt.

The purpose-built facility is the newest care facility in the Masonic Villages Trust’s stable. It should be ready to open in just a couple of months after a slight delay. One of the Trust’s five care homes (and 17 retirement villages), it is a state-or-the-art facility with all the very latest and most sophisticated care features and amenities.

It provides resthome, respite, hospital-level, and palliative, end-of-life care for residents. It features 53 individual care suites, three premium rooms and six standard rooms, meaning Woburn is accessible to all, including those without the means to access a care suite. It will of course be providing 24/7 access to care by registered nurses.

Our care suites are larger than the rooms usually available in similar facilities.

They are designed to provide residents with resthome through to hospital-level accommodation, and they each have their own lounge, kitchenette, generous bedroom with discreet, ceiling-mounted hoists and full ensuite.

There are also a number of smaller, more intimate public spaces and a variety of welcoming and well-planned community and social areas. These include three community dining areas (with menus approved by a dietitian), three community lounge areas, space for church services and personal reflection, a hairdresser and personal care facilities, and four easily-accessible courtyards. We have incorporated solar panels into our design to enhance our sustainability and reduce our environmental footprint.

The first Woburn Masonic was built over 60 years ago and this rebuild reflects both our rich history and heritage and our focus on providing for elderly New Zealanders into the future.

New retirement village joins The Masonic Villages Trust

The Masonic Villages Trust has added another retirement village to its growing stable as part of its strategic expansion goals.

The latest to join the Trust is Wharekaka Village in Martinborough in the Wairarapa. It is home to 13 residents in 12 villas.

The merger was completed on March 1 this year.

“We are delighted to have agreed the recent merger because it means Wharekaka Village will continue to develop and meet increasing needs in Martinborough as well as providing a pathway to full residential care in Masonic facilities elsewhere, for village residents, if needed, ” says Wharekaka Trust Chair, Joy Cooper. She says that post-Covid, the business of providing rest home and hospital level care became unsustainable from a cost and revenue standpoint. This meant the Trust had to make some tough decisions on its future. Sadly, it had to close Wharekaka’s hospital and rest home service in March 2022.

Wharekaka was fortunate in that The Masonic Villages Trust was – and still is – looking to expand.

This is in keeping with its goals of providing retirement living and hospital level care to New Zealand’s aging population in local communities.

So, Joy met with The Masonic Villages Trust Chief Executive, Warick Dunn. The two of them had a chat or two, something Joy said proceeded very smoothly over several months, and the rest is now history.

“We wanted to align with a Trust that has the same goals and philosophies as us, and Warick and his team made us feel confident that we had a shared set of values.”

Wharekaka Trust opened for business in the early 1970s. It was run by community volunteers for many years.

The Masonic Villages Trust is equally pleased with the merger. It follows its earlier merger several years ago with the Northland District Masonic Trust.

“We are very much focused on catering to the needs of our country’s aging population, particularly those among us who need more affordable housing in their retirement,” Warick said.

“And often, people want to retire in the communities in which they have lived most of their lives.

“So, we place our retirement villages in local communities, like Martinborough, so residents can continue to live close to family and friends,” he says.

“Thanks to this merger, we are confident that Wharekaka, as a Masonic Village, will continue to provide services in Martinborough, while also investing in and developing our facilities further for existing and future residents,” says Joy.

Joy Cooper, Wharekaka Trust Chair

Wharekaka Village in Martinborough in the Wairarapa

From the First Grand Principal

Greetings Companions; at the conclusion of his two-year term in office, the First Grand Principal’s final duty is to install his successor – that Companion who has been selected by Management Council as the best man for the job from applicants sought nationally; recommended to Companions and subsequently elected by them.

On Saturday 11 March 2023; at the Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter in Christchurch; it will be my pleasure to install REComp Dennis Morley Waller PGLec as your First Grand Principal, and it is appropriate that I provide you with a profile of the Companion and first lady whom I know will lead our Order well.

Glenys and Dennis were married in 1971 and are the proud parents of a son and daughter. Their daughter; the elder sibling; is Chief of Staff for the Chief Executive of the National Grid and based in London and has two daughters aged 7 and 8.

Their son has recently been appointed Executive Principal at a school on Auckland’s North Shore and has two boys aged 3 and 6. The children’s success has undoubtedly been favourably influenced by the example and achievements of their parents.

Now retired, Dennis had a lifetime career in Finance and Merchant banking and rose to senior level before he and a partner started and ran a merchant banking firm. He is a former Chairman and Chief Executive of a Gaming Machine Trust and also provided advisory services to a number of companies.

Glenys’ career was in the primary school sector where she specialized in new entrants and later acted as a manager and mentor in an early learning centre.

Both share a lifelong association with sporting activity. During her 30 years teaching at St Cuthbert’s College, Glenys coached and ran the badminton program as well as being in charge of tennis and assisting with both basketball

and netball. And she was eminently well qualified to do so, having played age group and provincial tennis and competing at a national level. She also represented New Zealand at badminton, playing in Australia, Asia and New Zealand and competing at the Commonwealth Games in Christchurch. Dennis played Premier Grade rugby, provincial rugby and was an All Black trialist. He went on to coach for another 25 years.

Dennis began his Masonic career when he was initiated into The Lodge of the Liberal Arts No 500 in 1997. He served 3 terms as Master in 2004-2005, 2005-2006 and 2020-2021. In 2010 he was appointed Grand Lecturer for the Northern Division and simultaneously served those two years as a member of the National Education Committee. He retains his educational interest as a member of the United Masters’ Lodge No 187.

In 2016 he was elected as Auckland’s District Grand Master Auckland for a 3-year term during which an adjacent District was added to his portfolio of responsibility. His considerable services to the Craft were deservedly recognised when he was elevated to the rank of Past Grand Warden in 2019.

His Royal Arch career began 22 years ago when he was advanced as a Mark Master Mason in The Chapter of Peace No 98 in October 2001. After serving progressive offices over the ensuing decade he was installed as First Principal in 2011 and served two

consecutive terms. He is a Past Thrice Illustrious Master of Ara Cryptic Council No 53, and served as the Grand Lecturer (Northern Division) 2013-2015.

During this time, he was instrumental in the development of our Pathways Ceremony which has proved extremely successful as an educational tool for encouraging enquiring Master Masons to complete the recognised six Degrees of Antient and Accepted Freemasonry.

But perhaps the best measure of the man who will lead us for the ensuing two years is the unheralded charitable work which he has quietly committed to ‘behind the scenes’:

Š Trustee – Freemasons Foundation since 2013

Š Committee Member –The Freemasons Charity 2016

Š Trustee – Trees for Survival

Š Organised free books to 43 kindergartens through Duffy Books when DGM Auckland, and supported by our Freemasons Charity

Š Rotarian for 45 years. Holder of a sapphire Paul Harris Fellow

Š Former committee member of Dr Barnardo’s and the National Children’s Health Research Foundation

His extensive duties on behalf of our Royal Arch fraternity may momentarily sideline many of his hobbies which include watching sport, reading and travelling

VEComp Neville James Hall, PZ, GPA

The Royal Arch has a very special merit award which honours exemplary service within a Chapter or for the cause of Royal Arch Masonry. This accolade can only be bestowed by the First Grand Principal after satisfactory evidence the submission meets stringent qualification criteria. While Neville’s Masonic service to both the Craft and Royal Arch was very compelling in itself, supplementary phone calls and written testimonials from Southern Divisional Grand Principal REComp

Paul Johnston and Grand Superintendent REComp

Ferg McNaughton made the decision an easy and obvious one.

Both advised that VE Companion Neville Hall, PZ, had worked tirelessly over many years promoting Royal Arch Masonry in the Southland District, where it had formerly languished in the doldrums. There is now a steady growth in numbers and a new enthusiasm within the district.

Neville also serves as Scribe E of his Chapter and as Recorder for his Cryptic Council. He developed and published a booklet on Freemasonry in the Southland District with a bias towards Royal Arch and Cryptic Masonry. When presenting the Award at St Andrews Royal Arch Chapter No 30 in Invercargill on 19 October 2022, MEComp Ron

Lane First Grand Principal stated it was a personal privilege to present Neville with this mark of recognition in appreciation of all he has achieved in supporting and growing Royal Arch interest in the far south. Congratulations were also extended to partner Louise Craig who has always been wholly supportive of Neville’s considerable Masonic endeavours.

Neville’s commitment to Royal Arch Freemasonry will be further recognised at our Annual Grand Convocation in Christchurch on 11 March, when he will be invested with Grand Chapter rank as the Grand Sword Bearer for the Southland District.

Master Masons completing the Masonic journey

Clause 71 of the Freemasons NZ Constitution recognizes three Craft degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason; plus the three Royal Arch degrees of Mark Master, Excellent Master and Holy Royal Arch as being pure, antient Freemasonry. We warmly welcome these newly-advanced Mark Masters within our Royal Arch fraternity.

to visit his children and grandchildren. But I have every confidence that in REComp Dennis Waller and Glenys; his most ardent supporter; Royal Arch Freemasonry will be well served and well led during his term. Companions,

rest assured that you have elected the right man for the job and on your behalf; I pledge our support and wish he and Glenys well. And lastly Companions, thank you. It has been an honour to serve with you. Never lose sight of the fact

that our future lies not only in the viability of our Chapters and Councils, but also in the prosperity and success of our Craft fraternity. And to that end, I know Royal Arch Companions will continue to be Freemasonry’s most ardent supporters, and

that your Lodge allegiance has been instrumental in cementing the strong and co-operative bonds extant between our Craft and Royal Arch.

MEComp Ron Lane First Grand Principal

Supporting Our family

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reasons to sign up

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Fathers, Sons and Lewis’ all Brothers

The son of a Freemason, when made a Freemason, is called a Lewis. A special moment for a Father (Alain Valeza Sr) and Son (Alain Valeza Jr) newly initiated.

Supported by Roy Austria (Lewis) and Rex Austria (Lewis), both initiated previously on the same day at another lodge and Roel

Austria (Father). A couple of them are members of the Masonic Motorcyclist Chapter, the Widows Sons as well.

Promotion and Roll of Honour

The 6th of December was a red-letter day for the members of Lodge Abercorn-Tuahine No 76 in Gisborne. The newly installed Divisional Grand Master for Central Division, Mick Turner, made a pastoral visit to make a special presentation as well as perform an investiture.

Accompanying RWBro Turner were Ian Hunt, Junior Grand Warden, Chris Douglas-Huriwai, Grand Chaplain and Keith Jackson,

District Grand Master of Eastland-Ruahine District.

Darrington Slater of Lodge Abercorn-Tuahine was presented with the Roll of Honour as a token of thanks for his work for the Lodge in general and in particular for his efforts over the past year.

Bob Bos was invested as Past Grand Deacon to mark his work for the Lodge and the good of Freemasonry within the community.

200 years plus 50!

At Okara Daylight Lodge 3 March 2023 VWBro Hilton Cook was presented with his 50 year Jewel by VWBro Hugh Chamberlain District Grand Master. Group photo are all 50-year Freemasons.

Members of Lodge Rotorua - Bay of Plenty District and Lodge Waitomo - Waikato District.

Welcome to our newest Freemasons

November 2022 – January 2023

Viel Sevilleja The Caledonian Lodge No. 16

Daniel Lacey The Caledonian Lodge No. 16

Shannon Anderson The Advance Mawhera Lodge No. 61

Christopher Villalobos Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85

Carlo Felix The Waitohi Lodge No. 111

Jesse Macnicol The Waipa Lodge No. 119

Andre Bassett The Tauranga Lodge No. 125

Stepan Lishchynskyy The Tauranga Lodge No. 125

Raul Begino Te Awahou Lodge No. 133

Remart Trinidad Waikaka Lodge No. 151

Ben Dunbar Waikaka Lodge No. 151

Luke Kerr Lodge Rotorua No. 153

Nicholas Gaunt Wellsford Marsden Lodge No. 169

Luke Gray Lodge Waitakerei No. 170

Filip Nikoloski Hutt Valley Lodge No. 176

Brandon Reff IV Lodge Whakatane No. 198

Jose Hernandez Titirangi Mt Albert Lodge No. 204

Murray Hutt Lodge Doric Brighton No. 236

Benjamin Niven Lodge Haeata No. 272

Jay Ryan Go Lodge Wanaka No. 277

Vikram Gorur Lodge Tuakau No. 278

Rhys Margan Lodge Katikati No. 295

James Ong Lower Hutt Lodge No. 299

James Greally Westminster Lodge No. 308

Steven Mills Lodge Howick No. 314

Ronald Apaapa The Lodge of Remembrance No. 318

Rosauro Paolo Pasia The United Lodge No. 340

Timothy Baker Lodge Waiheke No. 367

Kepa Earles Lodge Hatea No. 431

Gordon Law Lodge Hatea No. 431

Rodolfo Ibay Jr Lodge Waitomo No. 469

Jay Lou Cabesas Lodge Waitomo No. 469

For every man who aspires to be a better person, Freemasonry helps you develop the knowledge and skills to be the best you can be – through a unique mix of ceremony, fresh thinking and good works in an enjoyable and supportive environment, because only Freemasonry uses long-proven principles that empower you to unlock your full potential, for a better future.

The Last Word!

Freemasons New Zealand crossword

ACROSS

1 Another Australian State recently hosted its Grand Installation in March 2023, which city?

2 New First Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of NZ? (Two words)

4 In Greek mythology, what was the name of the muse who presides over eloquence and epic poetry (name of the overseas NZ Lodge)?

6 Next New Zealand Special Olympics in 2025 is being held where?

7 In which overseas country is a lodge of The Grand Lodge of New Zealand celebrating its centenary?

9 Which Australian State recently hosted its Grand Installation in February 2023?

10 The Square teaches what?

11 A special ‘what’ is being held in November 2023?

13 What climate catastrophe struck the North and East Coast of New Zealand?

14 Annual Camp for young people with Crohn’s and Colitis?

15 How many cards are in a standard pack of cards? (Two words)

17 The Level teaches what?

18 The Plumb teaches what?

19 What part of Turkey did ANZAC troops land at?

DOWN

1 Freemasons CAR -T cell Research is being conducted by what organisation? (Two words)

3 Name of the recent Cyclone that hit New Zealand?

5 Who are these working tools - Square, Level and Plumb Rule?

8 25th April is what important day of national remembrance? (Two words)

12 Annual Camps for young people with cancer?

16 Which Grand Lodge is celebrating its 300th Anniversary in 2025?

SERVICE AWARDS

November 2022 – January 2023

60 YEAR BADGE

MWBro John Michael Pope PGM New Zealand Pacific No. 2

WBro Frank Kay PM RH The Rawhiti Lodge No. 66

Bro Warner George Barber MM The Mount Ida Lodge No. 97

Bro Alan John Cushnie MM Lodge Winton No. 108

Bro John Alexander Nicholson Matheson MM Lodge Manuherikia Kilwinning No. 109

Bro Maurice Clark Beck MM The Taupiri Lodge No. 118

WBro Bruce Graham Frethey PM Hutt Valley Lodge No. 176

WBro Donald James Ritchie Wright PAsstGDC Unity Lodge No. 271

50 YEAR BADGE

RWBro Alan Langley Hart PGW New Zealand Pacific No. 2

Bro Graham Vaughan-Jones MM Lodge of Unanimity Sumner No. 3

WBro Jack Edward Blair PM Lodge of Progress No. 22

WBro Gary Lyle Clarke PM The Robert Burns Lodge No. 50

VWBro Peter John Barnes PGDC The Forest Lodge No. 116

VWBro Richard Alexander Scadden PDistGM Lodge Torea No. 121

WBro Clarence John Nicholl PM Trentham Lodge No. 262

WBro Ivan Earl Jonasen PM Unity Lodge No. 271

VWBro Ross Dalziell PGLec Lodge Kawerau No. 422

WBro John Oluf Philp Wills PM The Henderson Meridian Lodge No. 463

WBro Noel Raymond Davies PM United Horowhenua Lodge No. 464

Bro Peter James Vela MM Lodge Waikato No. 475

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