The 80-year-old Foxton man that went missing yesterday evening (8 May) has been found by LandSAR teams this morning.
The man was found with his dog on Foxton Beach having walked out from sand dunes just after 8:30am. He was transported off the beach by a 4WD.
He spent the night huddled with his dog in amongst the sand dunes near a local forest.
District SAR coordinator Sergeant Bill Nicholson says: "Everyone involved in the search was relieved to find the man with his dog. We believe that he may have wandered off his normal walking track and become disorientated."
The man has been transported to Palmerston North Hospital to be assessed. Initial observations suggest that he may have hypothermia.
Search teams began looking for the man yesterday evening after Police received a call that he had not retuned home after his usual walk. Teams re-commenced the search at 7am today.
"This search was a great team effort and I would like to thank all those involved including; the Foxton Surf Life Saving Club, Coastguard, Fire Service, Police staff, Palmerston North Phillips Rescue Helicopter, LandSAR volunteers, and the local community.
"Your support and dedication is vital in search and rescue operations."
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.