British backpackers found in Coromandel

Two missing British backpackers have been found this morning after spending two nights in the Coromandel bush.

Police helicopter crew flying over the Broken Hills area, among ranges between Tairua and Thames, spotted smoke early this morning, and soon after sighted Richard Stevenson.

The sighting led searchers to the 23-year-old and his 24-year-old partner Samantha McBurnie about 9 am.

Police said the pair, who failed to return from a day-tramp around historic goldmining sites on Sunday afternoon, were well enough to walk out of the bush.

They were airlifted to Thames Hospital, but have been discharged.