Hamilton boy Aaron Whinn, 8, found safe by police

Eight-year-old Aaron Whinn, of Hamilton, was reported missing tonight but has now been found. Photo / NZ Police

Police have found 8-year-old Hamilton boy Aaron Whinn safe after he was reported missing.

He was last seen about 6pm this evening and was found after 9pm near his home, police said.

He was wearing an orange jumper with black tree patterns printed on it.

Waikato police say Aaron was last seen at Hockin Pl in Fairfield.

"Police and his family have serious concerns for his safety,'' a statement said earlier this evening.

Police officers were on the ground carrying out inquiries and searching the area.

The Waikato police were also using social media to spread the word of Aaron's disappearance.

Aaron Whinn, 8, was wearing this jumper when he went missing. Photo / NZ Police

A Facebook post about the boy's disappearance was shared almost 4000 times by members of the public in just under an hour.

"Hope he's found soon. Every parent's worst nightmare,'' one person wrote.

"Pray he is okay,'' another said.

Aaron Whinn, 8, was last seen on Hockin Place, Fairfield, in Hamilton about 6pm tonight. Image / Google.