An American tramper who was reported missing has been found safe and well near the Rakaia River.
Friends of Clint Hewitt, 32, reported him missing last week. He had last been seen heading North on the Te Araroa Trail last Wednesday.
He was intending to walk the trail which meets the road along the banks of the Rakaia River. Hewitt was described as a "very experienced" tramper.
Hewitt was found along the Double Hill Run Road late this afternoon.
Sixteen members of the Methven Land Search and Rescue group were deployed in unfavourable weather conditions during the search for Mr Hewitt when he was reported overdue.