Tributes flow for ‘much-loved’ Warkworth teen Silas Sims killed in car crash

The teen driver who died when his vehicle hit a power pole in regional Auckland is being remembered by family and his community as a much-loved character, a keen rugby player and fisherman whose life was taken far too soon.

Silas Sims, 16, died after the car he was driving hit a power pole on Leigh Rd in Matakana on Saturday night.

His parents Sarah and Ben Sims and brother Cassius said they would forever miss their “born adventurer” son and brother.

In his 16 years, he touched the lives of so many people.

“A born adventurer, with the charm of a prince and a smile that would light up a thousand solar systems.”

He was always the first to lend a hand, be there for his mates and “enfold you in a hug” if it was needed.

The family asked for donations to the Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade in lieu of flowers and said a service would be held at the Whangateau Reserve on Thursday.

Silas Sims, 16, was killed when his car hit a power pole last Saturday.

Mahurangi College principal Tony Giles told the Herald Sims was a” much-loved young man with a wide friendship group".

“[He was] known for his kindness, loyalty, and integrity.

“He was a real character, known to all with his ever-changing, crazy haircuts and his love for the outdoors, especially rugby, hunting and fishing.

“[Sims] brought laughter to those around him.

He said Sims’ death was being felt “deep” across Mahurangi College.

“As we grieve, we also hold close the memories of his unique spirit and the joy he brought to so many.”

The Omaha Beach Surf Life Saving club, where Sims was a member, said he was a “memorable young man”.

Tributes have poured in for Silas John Mulvey Danger Sims, aged 16, of Warkworth.

“He also treated everyone with a deep, non-judgmental kindness that was unexpected from a teenage boy.

“Let us remember him for that and spread our own kindness in this time of grief.”

Many tributes said his life was taken “much too soon”.

“My heart breaks for his family”, one person wrote.

“A wonderful young man and a fantastic rugby player - I loved watching him from the sideline. Taken too soon,” another wrote.

A Leigh Rd resident who lived near the crash site said the road was “usually safe” but it had been raining that evening.

She said people had been visiting the site to lay tributes and flowers.

Her son was first to the crash.

“When he heard how loud it was, he knew it was serious.”

She said he put his truck in the middle of the road to stop traffic before calling emergency services.

Emergency services arrived at the scene between Quintal and Takatū Rds, just after 6pm, according to a police spokesperson.

Detective Sergeant Wayne Gear, of the Serious Crash Investigation Team, said an investigation was under way.