Former Deputy Prime Minister Sir Michael Cullen has been appointed as the new chair of the Earthquake Commission (EQC).

Minister Responsible for EQC Megan Woods said Cullen’s extensive financial and leadership experience will be hugely helpful as EQC faces and navigates a “a critical period in its history.”

“Over his years of service to New Zealand Sir Michael has demonstrated a prodigious intelligence, far sighted strategic thinking and a commitment to helping people, which will serve the EQC well,” Woods noted. “I look forward to working with Sir Michael to deliver a strong future for the Earthquake Commission so it can continue to play its important role supporting New Zealanders after natural disasters.

In his new role, former Finance Minister Cullen will lead the rebuilding of the Natural Disaster Fund after its depletion by the Canterbury and Kaikoura earthquakes, planning for the organisation’s response to greater frequency of extreme weather events, and resolving of outstanding EQC and insurance claims.

Woods added she is confident that Cullen can “complete the job.”