Outside of work , he enjoyed outdoor activities such as boating , fishing , water skiing , and mountain biking . In 2018 , Simon took on the responsibility for Suzuki ’ s marine division when Suzuki New Zealand regained national distribution rights for its outboard motors . He viewed this as a positive development for Whanganui , appointing Whanganui Engineering and Marine as a dealer and overseeing the first Suzuki outboard sale to the local coastguard unit . A key member of the Whanganui Water Ski Club , Simon was also a very good skier , nationally-ranked boat driver , tournament chief driver , coach , coaching director , chief mechanic for the boat maintenance , among other roles , and he would do it all with immense humour and kindness . Simon would share his knowledge , equipment , boat but most of all and the most precious , his time . Tributes have flown for in Simon , including from his own close team at Suzuki New Zealand based in Whanganui . “ Simon was far from just an employee and became a great friend and mentor to many of us at Suzuki New Zealand , our dealers , and everyone he dealt with ,” they wrote in the official announcement of his passing . “ He was instrumental in Suzuki New Zealand ’ s success over the last 25 years and has been pivotal in helping make Suzuki the company we are today . Primarily involved in the Motorcycle Department , and more recently the reintroduction of Suzuki Marine and then Aftersales , he was someone who never stopped looking for and mastering any challenge that was put in front of him , always pushing himself and everyone around to be the best they could be . Simon was also someone who never sat still , equally passionate about his work as he was about anything that moved – motorcycles , water skis , mountain bikes , cars , even model aeroplanes . But above all else he was totally devoted to his family - his wife Jenny , his sons Brent and Tennessee , his daughter Lily , his mother Sally , and his daughter in law Marie , supporting their dreams and pursuits anyway he could . Our thoughts and fond memories go out to Jenny and the extended family during this time .” Thoughts are with Simon ’ s family and his friends . He was a giant of a man and a very special person who will not be forgotten . Andy McGechan
KIWI RIDER 13