Four-year-old found after 'frantic' search in northern Waikato

A four-year-old has gone missing from his home in Paeroa. Photo / NZ Police

A four-year-old has been found after he went missing from his home in northern Waikato, sparking a "frantic" search.

Police were alerted to the autistic toddler's disappearance at 1pm and promptly started searching fearing for his safety.

During the search efforts senior sergeant Aaron Fraser told the Herald Waitoki "Toki" Hemara "could be anywhere".

He had gone missing near Ainslie Rd and Aorangi Rd about 12.45pm, Fraser said.

The community response had been amazing, Fraser said, praising the many locals who had started searching.

"A complicating factor is this little fella has only just turned four and he has autism," Fraser had said during the search.

The youngster, who had a fascination with water and horses, had gone missing in an area surrounded by horse tracks and creeks.

The toddler was found safe and well about 3.45pm at a nearby address.