'Most lovely man imaginable': Wānaka man crushed by car named

The Wānaka man who died after being crushed by his car in his driveway has been described as the “most genuine and lovely man imaginable”. 

David Simmers, 85, died on Monday morning in the driveway of his home. 

Mr Simmers was a member of the Upper Clutha History Society for nearly 20 years, and members have paid tribute to their friend. 

“He was the most genuine, lovely man imaginable, he was utterly devoted to helping us with the Upper Clutha History Society, turned up every Wednesday regardless,” Jo Wilton said. 

“He would tackle anything.” 

Mr Simmers was a former farmer from Southland and later took up land valuing.

His son Jeff Simmers is on the farm and his daughter Kath Keown lives nearby in Wānaka. 

"He was very good at advising us on our maps, any pics to do with farming he would understand it completely,” Mrs Wilton said. 

Another member of the society, Ken Allan, said Mr Simmers was a true gentleman and always had a smile on his face. 

"David was a really good guy. We made him a life member just to recognise his long service.” 

Mr Simmers' wife, Jenny, had passed away and he was living alone at the property. 

Emergency services were called to the property in Roche St on Monday morning.

"Sadly, despite efforts from emergency responders, he was unable to be revived, " police said in a statement.

It was not known how he became trapped under his vehicle, and no other people were involved. 

The death has been referred to the Coroner.

- Allied Media