The Government has appointed businessman and former Air New Zealand 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.

Little also referred to Fyfe's empathy for those who had suffered tragedy when an Air New Zealand A320 crashed into the sea off Perpignan, France, in 2008. The crash killed seven people, including five New Zealanders.

"He also sent 30 airline personnel to assist the Pike families immediately following the disaster in 2010."

Fyfe will take up the role from January 31, when Te Kāhui Whakamana Rua Te Kau mā Iwa-Pike River Recovery Agency will also be formally established.