The appointment was made following a decision of the full council on January 23 which it said ensured consistency and stability while work continued to recruit a permanent chief executive.
Mayor John Glover said the appointment followed a robust process led by Local Government New Zealand.
"The most important decision that this council will make is to appoint the substantive replacement for Mike Theelen.
"Michelle brings the knowledge and experience needed to lead the organisation as it faces the reforms and challenges over the coming months pending that appointment and it is wonderful that we will have an interim who can hit the ground running."
Ms Morss has more than 20 years in local government and the private sector.
Ms Morss, who is the council’s current general manager strategy and policy, said she was excited to step into the interim role.
"It’s going to be a busy period as we work on the development of the long-term plan, the establishment of the water services council-controlled organisation and understand the implications of a broad range of central government reforms for the sector.
"Having lived in the district for over 10 years, it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to play a role in securing good outcomes for our communities and ensuring that we continue to deliver our services without interruption," she said. — Allied Media
