Missing boy found, home safe

Ataaere Ngatokorua failed to return to his Mangere home from school, police said. He was known to visit the Mangere Library area with friends. Photo / Supplied

An 11-year-old South Auckland boy who failed to come home from school yesterday has been found safe and well this morning.

Ataaere Ngatokorua had stayed the night at a friend's house, Inspector Chris Tait from northern police communications said.

"He's back home with grandma now."

There were concerns for the safety of an 11-year-old South Auckland boy who had been missing since yesterday.

Ataaere Ngatokorua failed to return to his Mangere home from school, police said.
He was known to visit the Mangere Library area with friends.

Ataaere's family were concerned for his safety due to his age and vulnerability and wanted him to return home, police said.

He is described as a Cook Islander, of average build, 140cm tall with short black hair.

He was last seen wearing a red t-shirt, navy blue track pants and carrying a black and white backpack.