Missing psychiatric patient found

A missing mental health patient who disappeared from a psychiatric unit in south Auckland on Wednesday night, has been found.

Matiu Whiu, 22, was found earlier today and was back in the care of the mental health services, said police.

He was thought to be heading north where he had relatives in Kaikohe but police said details of his apprehension were not clear.

Police said he was a potential risk to police officers but not to the public although they warned members of the public he was dangerous and should not be approached.

He left the unit in Flat Bush about 9pm on Wednesday night and was on foot with no access to a vehicle.

He was being held under the Intellectual Disability Act and he left the unit in contravention of a court order.

- NZPA