A decision is yet to be made on the process of returning prison escapee Phillip Smith to New Zealand.

Detective Superintendent Mike Pannett, who oversaw the arrest of Smith in Rio de Janeiro, is now returning to Washington.

From there he'll continue to closely monitor a pending decision from Brazilian authorities.

He says arrangements have been made so he, the Brazil Federal Police, the New Zealand Embassy and justice officials are all alerted when there's any change to the current situation.

Mike Pannett says he respects Brazil's justice system and is working within their timeframes and processes.