Our Story

February 2017

The Conversation Begins

At the AGM of District Grand Lodge Officers, requirements were presented for the future of the district. Lodges began discussing how the district could evolve from a structure designed for a historically much larger organisation.

16 May 2017

Planning for the Future

The first meeting of the sub-committee was held at Ross Roofing in Takanini. Discussions included property, assets and the possibility of creating a new lodge with a completely new beginning.

March 2019

The Foundation Committee

A Lodge Foundation Committee was formed, led and chaired by W Bro Paul Chappel. Its first meeting was held on 6 March 2019. The committee focused on developing the concept and structure of the new lodge.

2019

Four Lodges, One Future

Following extensive consultation, it was agreed that Otahuhu No.387, Papatoetoe No.227, Manurewa No.222 and Tironui No.400 would hand in their Charters.

The goal was to consolidate, regenerate and preserve Freemasonry within the district for future generations.

The Name “Matariki”

Several names were suggested for the new lodge. W Bro Paul Larsen's suggestion, “Matariki”, became the overwhelmingly preferred choice. W Bro Jeff France ROH was approached to become the Foundation Master.

114 Members Sign the Petition

A formal Petition for Charter was submitted for the creation of the new lodge. The petition was signed by 114 members from across the district.

19 October 2019

Lodge Matariki No.476 Is Born

With the Charter granted and the number 476 issued, Lodge Matariki was Dedicated and Constituted at the Jet Park Function Suite in Mangere.

The ceremony was conducted by Grand Master MW Bro Mark Winger and witnessed by 140 brethren, together with representatives of the Scottish, English and Irish Constitutions.

27 November 2019

The First Regular Meeting

The first regular meeting of Lodge Matariki No.476 was held in the Manurewa Lodge Rooms, where W Bro Jeff France welcomed 61 brethren.