It's the news Mahe Drysdale was hoping for, Tonks will coach Drysdale and the women's double, but will be contracted outside of the Rowing NZ programme.
It's a big compromise from the governing body, who pride themselves on their very successful, centralised system.
"I'm very grateful, I think [Rowing NZ] understood what we needed and what our best chance in Rio was and they've bent the rules for that," said Drysdale.
Drysdale says Tonks is looking forward to working with his rowers again. And despite the new arrangement Drysdale is adamant nothing will change.
"We don't see Dick in the morning, or anything anyway. He puts his boat on the water and meets us on the water. In that respect, everything is exactly the same."
Rowing NZ CEO Simon Peterson says nothing will change as far as this year's international regattas either, as Tonks was already included in all their arrangements.
But Peterson does admit the situation may prove difficult.
"It will be awkward at times I guess for our coaches, but our coaches are professional and so are the athletes. Really there focus when they get overseas is on the water and I've got full confidence they'll continue to have that focus."
Drysdale can now turn his attention back to defending his Olympic title, which would be the perfect outcome for all concerned.
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