Former High Court judge Paul Heath QC will undertake a thorough investigation into the city council's role in the Bella Vista buildings.
The scope of the investigation would be limited to the Bella Vista Homes at Lakes Boulevard and Aneta Way.
Heath was appointed as a judge of the High Court of New Zealand in April 2002 and had recently retired from the bench.
Tauranga City Council chief executive Garry Poole said Heath would deliver a report by June 1. This will allow elected members to consider its findings ahead of making a decision on the council's preferred option for homeowners on June 6.
Poole said Heath's appointment will ensure an independent, fair and impartial investigation.