Bay of Plenty passengers are being encouraged to say “thank you” to drivers this weekend as part of Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Sunday.

The day is an opportunity to thank the Baybus drivers who keep the region moving from Tauranga and Rotorua to the Eastern Bay, a Bay of Plenty Regional Council press release said.

The council, which operates the region’s bus network, said Baybus drivers help people get to work, school, appointments and home, while bringing care and kindness to every journey.

Rotorua Cityride driver Dave has been behind the wheel for more than 50 years and said his love of buses began as a child growing up in Devonport, the release said.

Rotorua bus driver Dave. Photo / supplied

“I’ve been into buses all my life – since I was a little fella,” he said.

Dave started his career in teaching but left the classroom to pursue his passion for driving, later combining both roles by teaching during the day and driving commuter routes before and after school.

He moved to Rotorua in 2015 and said the best part of the job was meeting people.

“I’ve met so many interesting people over the years,” he said.

Eastern Bay driver Daisy said she loved making passengers feel welcome and safe.

“Driving doesn’t seem like a job,” she said.

“I like driving and meeting new people.”

Daisy said small gestures from passengers, such as thank-you cards or gifts, made the job rewarding.

Western Bay of Plenty bus driver Lester. Photo / supplied

Western Bay driver Lester said the variety of routes and the people he met made the job special.

“I just love being a bus driver – the people, the freedom, the variety,” he said.

Lester moved to New Zealand in 2018 and said helping passengers, such as assisting with heavy shopping bags, was all part of the role.

The council said drivers like Dave, Daisy and Lester played a vital role in connecting communities.

Passengers are encouraged to thank their driver on Bus Driver Appreciation Day and every time they travel.