Missing backpacker found safe and well

Emilie Pace. Photo / Supplied

Queenstown police have confirmed that missing Frenchwoman Emilie Pace has been found safe and well.

Ms Pace turned up at Invercargill Police Station this afternoon after becoming aware of the concerns held for her safety by both her family and police.

Emilie had spent the past several days tramping in the Tuatapere area with a friend and had been out of cellphone range.

She had neglected to advise her family of her intentions, not realising how long the walk would take, said police. She was apologetic for the concern she had caused.

Sergeant Brian Cameron of Queenstown Police said the response by members of the public who had called in with possible sightings of Emilie had been heartening.

"It is great to see the community respond so positively when someone is perceived to be in trouble and certainly it has been appreciated by Emilie's family who have had a stressful few days".

- NZ Herald staff