Missing Hutt Gorge swimmer found

A swimmer reported missing in the Hutt Gorge yesterday afternoon has been found, police say.

Officer in charge of the search, Senior Constable Dan O'Connell said four people set off from the Kaitoke Waterworks around 10.45am yesterday morning.

"Three of the group were tubing down the river and a 42-year-old man was swimming with them.

"The 42-year-old decided to exit the river and make his way back to his vehicle through bush, but failed to return."

The man was reported missing about 4.45pm.

Senior Constable O'Connell said police and Search and Rescue volunteers launched a search for the man this morning between the Kaitoke Waterworks and Twin Lakes Road, both entry and exit points to the Hutt Gorge.

He was found a short time ago, Senior Constable O'Connell said.