He disproved the \u201cold grumpy bus driver\u201d stereotype with his helpful and caring nature, they said. <\/p>\n
A close friend of Cleary said he was always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. <\/p>\n
\u201cSean you are going to leave a huge hole in our lives. It was an absolute honour to work with you. You are sadly missed. Deepest sympathy to your family,\u201d said another person. <\/p>\n
\u201cWhenever I think of Sean\u2019s passing, I cannot hold back my tears. He was an exceptionally kind colleague, always willing to lend a hand. The manner in which he left us has left our hearts utterly broken,\u201d one person posted.<\/p>\n
Kinetic New Zealand managing director Calum Haslop said the bus service provider is \u201cdeeply saddened\u201d by Cleary\u2019s tragic passing. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe have been touched by the outpouring of support and tributes from colleagues, friends, and the wider community, reflecting the high regard in which this driver was held. <\/p>\n
\u201cThey were a cherished member of our team, known for their kindness, positivity, and willingness to help others.\u201d<\/p>\n
Police said the 61-year-old lived in Point Chevalier.<\/p>\n
They said enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.\u201d<\/p>\n
The horrific crash on October 22 <\/a>closed T\u0101maki Drive until the morning of October 24. <\/p>\n Fire and Emergency said firefighters were still trying to tackle the blaze hours after it started.<\/a><\/p>\n Photos of the scene showed the car wedged under an Auckland Transport bus. A witness said he saw flames \u201cabout three or four metres high\u201d. <\/p>\nEmergency services worked throughout the night after a vehicle collided head-on with an Auckland Transport bus, causing the electric bus to catch fire. Photo \/ NZ Herald <\/p>\n