Missing American tourist found

Philip Gerald Mohseni from Portland, Oregon, had been reported missing. Photo / supplied

A missing American tourist has checked into backpacker accommodation in Hokitika, after searchers spent today hunting for him in Westland.

Philip Mohseni, from Portland, Oregon, was believed to have gone tramping by himself south-west of Fox Glacier on June 21 or 22.

He was reported missing by his mother who hadn't heard from him for some time, police said.

The 24-year-old was thought to be spending three days in the Copland Track area and then was possibly heading to the Haast area for a few days.

A helicopter with a search and rescue team from the LandSAR Fox Glacier unit was due to fly into the Copland area today.

This evening, an apologetic Mr Mohseni checked into a Backpacker lodge in Hokitika. He said he was sorry for the distress he'd caused his family and for the efforts made in the search.

Police thanked the public for their help in locating him.