Lodge Auckland No. 87 was constituted in 1893 the same time as Richard John Seddon became Prime Minister of New Zealand. A freemason himself for over 30 years, and he was elected Grand Master of New Zealand. He possessed a deep love of humanity, attributes essential to both Politicians and Freemasonry along with a genuine dedication to help the needy.
It was a time when pioneers faced many challenges and hardships, Auckland had yet to become a wealthy city. The Material progress of the lodge in the early 19th century depended largely on the Sacrifice, benevolence and loyalty of those early members.
The lodge’s first permanent Home was the Masonic Hall in Eden Terrace a fairly remote area in those early days, when most Aucklander’s relied on horse drawn trams for transport. By 1923 with the membership numbering 225 the Lodge Auckland was never stronger. As a result a new lodge was formed Lodge Rongomau No. 280, drawing its members from Lodge Auckland. Subsequently this lodge was in 1989 to rejoin its Mother Lodge.
The home and meeting venue for Lodge Auckland is the AUCKLAND FREEMASONS CENTRE located at 181 Khyber Pass Road, Auckland. The new and modern facility is the Auckland Freemasons focal point for the next decade and incorporates a Masonic Library and Museum, two modern Lodge Rooms and full catering and dining facilities.
The regular meetings of the lodge are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month, commencing at 7:30pm.
Lodge Auckland has been honoured to have members of such good character that enabled them to be elected to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. These members continue to work tirelessly in the community and for the good of Freemasonry.
Over the last 22 years Freemasons New Zealand has provided University Scholarships in excess of $3 million to approximately 887 students throughout New Zealand. In May 2009 37 students received scholarships totalling $236,000 at a presentation hosted by the Prime Minister John Key at Parliament's Grand Hall in Wellington.
Other worthy causes supported by Freemasons New Zealand are Research into Geriatric Disorders and Paediatric Child Health. Lodges provide assistance to the Camp Quality program for children with Cancer.
All lodges contribute further towards the Freemasons Charity which assists individuals and families in need.
Today citizens are living in more confined environment‘s where Freemasons lodges provide the opportunity for men of good character to meet and bond with other men of good character away from political or religious influence. Many changes are being made to the way masonry operates today, with modern forward thinking and visible activities in the communities. Members of Lodge Auckland are proud to be Freemasons and welcome men of good character to join and become part of this world wide organization.
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