TRIBUTE has been paid to a man killed in a car crash while celebrating his ruby wedding anniversary in New Zealand.

David Banks, 64, of Cowling, near Keighley, had just arrived in the country with his wife, June, at the start of a six-week holiday.

Mrs Banks, 61, suffered minor injuries and spent two days in hospital.

Her sister has flown out to be with her and the pair are expected to fly home once Mrs Banks is able to tackle the long journey.

The crash occurred near Oakleigh last Wednesday, just ten hours after the couple had arrived in Auckland. Mrs Banks is said to be "absolutely distraught".

The couple had just enjoyed ten days in Australia, visiting relatives.

Close friend Mark Barnes, who lives near the couple at Middleton, said: "I know it is a cliché, but Dave was a really nice man. He was someone who was well-respected and loved by everyone.

"One of my tasks has been to get in touch with people who knew him and it is testament to his character that he had friends from all the different things with which he had been involved."

Mr Banks worked in the financial services industry and was a former squire of the Craven Flagcrackers morris dancing team. His wife was also involved with the group.

George Speller, fellow Flagcracker, mummer, friend and former employer of Dave, said: "We are all shocked and saddened by this tragic loss of one of The Flagcrackers of Craven’s longest standing members. A natural gentleman, Dave was a huge asset to the morris side, especially during his time as squire when his unfailing good humour and equanimity came to the fore. Our heartfelt sympathy goes to his widow, June.”

Current Squire Julie Greenwood added: “He really was a jolly good fellow."

It is understood the couple were on their way to the Bay of Islands when their rental car collided with another vehicle occupied by three people. Both Mr Banks and the driver of the other vehicle had to be cut from the wreckage by firefighters.

Police are still investigating the cause of the crash.