Pig hunter found safe and well

The 69-year-old pig hunter who went missing last night near Wanganui has been found safe and well.

David Alexander Stevens went hunting for pigs in the Waitotara Valley, on the Pinnacles farm, with another hunter about 3pm yesterday. He was due back before dark.

Concerns were raised when he didn't return, after he and the other hunter became separated.

Search and rescue teams and dog teams, with the help of neighbours, began looking about 11pm.

Police were preparing to send more search teams and a helicopter into the area this morning when Mr Stevens walked out about 7.30am.

Police were talking to Mr Stevens to establish where he was overnight and how he got lost.

- NZPA