Six commissioners have been announced to assist Dame Margaret Bazley to run the Canterbury regional council following the sacking of its elected representatives.
The decision to remove the regional council was made in March, after a government review raised concerns about its management of fresh water.
Environment Minister Nick Smith and Local Government Minister Rodney Hide named the commissioners in Christchurch on Thursday.
The ministers say the commissioners were approached by the Government after the options were whittled down to a shortlist of 20.
That list included some of the outgoing regional councillors, but the final panel was chosen for its breadth of experience and ability to work together, Dr Smith says.
The Government has set some terms of reference for the new panel and says some particular outcomes will be required. However, Dr Smith says it is premature for those milestones to be outlined yet.
He believes the commission will help improve the region's economy and environment.
Earlier in the day, regional councillors attended their final meeting and brought in a large coffin to the council chambers in protest at what they called the death of democracy.
The commissioners take control of the regional body on 1 May.
Panel of commissioners
David Caygill, a former Labour Party Cabinet minister and Christchurch City Councillor.
Peter Skelton, a former Environment Court judge.
David Bedford, a vineyard owner and former chief operating officer of Telecom Australia.
Tom Lambie, Chancellor of Lincoln University and former president of Federated Farmers.
Rex Williams, Chancellor of Canterbury University.
Donald Couch, pro-Chancellor of Lincoln University and a former deputy chairman of Maori tribe Ngai Tahu.
