Missing man found by cyclists in Waikato bush

Bush near the Waipapa Track.
Bush near the Waipapa Track. Photo credit: Google Maps.

A Waikato man missing since Wednesday has been found "safe and well".

Liam Mcpherson, 28, was reported missing this week after going for a walk in the Wairongomai Valley bush area near Te Aroha on Wednesday. 

A large Land, Search and Rescue team had been searching for him, but the man was instead found on Saturday afternoon by two members of the public biking the Waipapa Track.

"The pair did the right thing and alerted police immediately. We were able to get staff to his position who directed a helicopter in to get him out," a statement from police says.

"We'd like to thank all of the volunteers, including Land Search and Rescue staff and Canyon staff, who assisted in the search.

"We'd also like to thank the pair who alerted police and stayed with him until our arrival."

According to NZME, a family spokesperson says loved ones haven't yet seen Mcpherson, but are "elated" he has been found. 

"He is now on his way to Waikato Hospital tired, cold and weak but hungry (which has to be a good sign)," the spokesperson said.

Under alert level 3, people are allowed to go for day-walks on easy trails as long as they stick to their local area.