About three-and-a-quarter hours later, occupants of a house nearby went to investigate noises and found the girl who had wandered onto their property.
She was safe and well, and the occupants of the house immediately alerted police.
Earlier today Rotorua police Sergeant Courtney Brunt said police and the family members were "very concerned" for the toddler's welfare.
"We are seeking the community's assistance to help us find her," he said.
"If they can search their properties to make sure she is not hiding in a shed and keep their eyes open for her that would be most helpful."
A search and rescue team was activated to search in the Charles St/Clothier St area of Putaruru.
- additional reporting Rotorua Daily Post
