Arrowtown Freemasons lodge rededicated

The conspiracy theories might have been lacking but there was no shortage of freemasonry ritual and ceremony in Arrowtown on Saturday.

New Zealand grand master Stanley Barker, the head of freemasonry in New Zealand, was joined by Central Otago Lakes District grand master John Steele for the rededication ceremony of the refurbished Arrowtown Lodge.

Historic emblems believed to be 110 years old were discovered four years ago when Pinex board laid in the 1950s was lifted.

A large set-square and compass motif handpainted on to a chimney flue and a frieze of billowing curtains painted around the ceiling were uncovered. A tessellated pavement, which is a freemasons' lodge floor feature, was discovered below Pinex floorboards.

The features were restored and revealed to about 65 members on Saturday.

Arrowtown Freemasons worshipful master Graeme Wilson said Mr Barker performed the enactments of corn, wine, salt and oil, which are symbols of consecration at masonic ceremonies.

Mr Wilson, who has been a freemason for 35 years, said he joined up because his father was a member and most of his neighbours were as well.

The public will have a chance to view the lodge during the Autumn Festival in April.

- © Fairfax NZ News