UPDATED 6.15PM: Police say it's likely Phillip Smith will be charged with escaping from custody.

The prison escapee is to arrive back in New Zealand tomorrow morning after fleeing the country to Brazil earlier this month.

Once he lands he'll immediately be taken to Auckland Prison where he'll be handed into the custody of the Department of Corrections.

Police say at this stage they're unable to be specific on when charges will be laid, and what other charges may be.

A court appearance isn't expected tomorrow.

The Minister of Justice won't be drawn on whether heads should roll over the debacle - but says serious questions need to be asked.

Amy Adams says big mistakes were clearly made, but stopped short of calling for those responsible to be sacked.