Dr Salinger is taking a personal grievance against the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) over his sacking, and is considering whether to extend the case to include a claim of unjustified dismissal.
Documents seen by The Press newspaper yesterday showed the Crown research institute principal scientist was highly regarded by his employers as late as last year.
The Auckland climatologist is highly regarded internationally, with his involvement in global climate-change research contributing to a Nobel prize.
In his employment review for the year ended June 30, 2007, Dr Salinger was congratulated for his expertise, teamwork and communication abilities, The Press reported.
"Well-known by public as an expert on climate matters, (Dr Salinger) has a very responsible and accountable attitude to his work," the review said.
He also "has a high public profile as a climate expert and (is) the face of Niwa to the media".
A handwritten note last year acknowledged Dr Salinger had "rebuilt the relationship with TVNZ".
Dr Salinger said the atmosphere at Niwa had changed in the past six months or so, when he was told to "knuckle under, I'm the tall poppy, stand back from media stuff".
He had since spoken to both television and radio about weather-related issues.
Niwa spokeswoman Michele Hollis reiterated the institute's stand that it would not comment on an "employment matter".
Fellow scientists are stunned by Salinger's sacking.
MetService spokesman Bob McDavitt said he was "shocked", before adding: "I have been asked to say 'no comment'."
Wanaka glaciologist Trevor Chinn said he was "astonished".
Victoria University of Wellington earth scientist Jim McGregor said Dr Salinger was "a guy who, long before climate change became fashionable, has been commenting on the issues".
