The Government has appointed businessman and former Air NZ chief executive Rob Fyfe as an independent advisor on the manned Pike River re-entry.
Minister Responsible for Pike River Re-entry Andrew Little announced the appointment this morning.
"The new role will provide crucial independent advice to me so I can be sure of the quality and thoroughness of the information I receive from the Pike River Recovery Agency. The role provides another safeguard for the families and the public.
"Appointing an independent advisor will ensure I have access to a third-party perspective and independent assurance about the adequacy of the agency's processes."
Little said Fyfe's background with Air NZ meant he was well placed to advise on safety-sensitive activities, workplace environments and risk assessment. He added that the Pike River Families Reference Group supported the appointment.