About Us

Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO) is an initiatory organisation that promulgates the philosophy and religion of Thelema. The concept of Thelema comes to us through a series of Holy Books written by English mystic, Aleister Crowley, during states of higher consciousness.

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Thelema is a Greek word that means “Will.”  A commonly used phrase from our Holy Books is: “Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.” This refers to the importance of discovering one's unique path to true wisdom and perfect happiness.  The Order is, necessarily, protective of the individual rights and freedoms of all people irrespective of race, gender, sexuality, social status, etc.

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Thelema is at once a philosophy, a social model, a magical system, and a religion.  It is not unique to the OTO; its influence can be found in the disruptions we see around the world in institutionalised religions, philosophies and social thought.  Those drawn to our Order are those spiritual seekers who value personal enquiry, and a high level of discernment, courage and love in their spiritual quests.

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OTO membership is based on an initiatory system modelled after European Freemasonry.  Our central rite is the Gnostic Mass.

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The OTO was first incorporated in New Zealand in 1986, and it has local bodies throughout the country.  See our contact page and be sure to get in touch.

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