Otaki TodayFour generations of the Sims family helped plant out native trees they had donated for riverbank restoration on Wednesday, July 3.
The donation, and ongoing assistance and support for the Friends of the Ōtaki River project was acknowled by Friends planting coordinator Trevor Wylie.
“Without the support of our planting partners like Robert Sims and Amber Tatham we would not be able to achieve what we see here today.”
Trevor said families such as the Sims had a long history in Ōtaki. Ted Sims, who attended the planting, had parents who came to Ōtaki and took up farming in 1951. For about 60 years Ted has been farming at Old Coach Road, near the golf course.
Four generations of the Sims family turned out at the Friends of Ōtaki River planting on Wednesday, July 3. From left they are: Niamh (aged 3) David, Briar (1) Leah, Robert, Ted, Kathy Gaskell (nee Sims), Brandan, and Amber Tatham. At front are Anna (7) and Ella (4).
Photo Ōtaki Today
Ted and another attendee, Carl Lutz, both farmers and both well into their 90s, are brothers-in-law. They both married Fogden sisters. Amber has links to the Templeys and Tathams. Ted’s great grandchildren, who also helped with the planting, are also Trevor’s great grandchildren. They are fifth generation Sims to reside in Ōtaki, and sixth generation Wylies.
Trevor also mentioned his own grandfather, John Wylie, who came to Ōtaki in 1904.
While Trevor had the opportunity to make the speech at this planting, he thanked Max Lutz for his dedication to the Friends over 25 years, the last 20 as chair.
“It’s been lots of enthusiasm, diligence and generosity,” Trevor said. “Thank you so much for what you have contributed.”
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