Mr Melhopt (48) has held the role for five years and the council reappointed him yesterday on a five-year contract. Earlier this year, he was offered a two-year extension when his contract ran out but he sought a five-year contract instead.
The position was advertised and Mr Melhopt said he would apply.
Central Otago Mayor Tony Lepper said the job had attracted eight applicants, ''which probably reflects the industry understanding that the current chief executive officer was applying for the position''.
Mr Melhopt's appointment was discussed in private at yesterday's council meeting and Mr Lepper announced the decision afterwards.
After considering the applicants and given the council's preference for an experienced local government chief executive, Mr Melhopt was the only one interviewed by the council's executive committee for the role, Mr Lepper said.
''The executive committee was impressed with Phil's vision for the organisation and for the district.''
It recommended the council offer him a five-year contract and the council agreed unanimously.
Mr Melhopt said it was a privilege to work for the council and he had an ''excellent team'' supporting him.
There were major projects coming up in the next five years, including the Alexandra and Cromwell water supply upgrades.
