Kory-Dean Wirihana, who was reported missing after failing to board a flight at Auckland Airport, has been found safe.

Wirihana was last seen early Friday morning after checking in for a flight to Christchurch.

His phone and luggage were later found at the airport, prompting an urgent search and widespread appeals from his family and the public.

On Sunday night, his sister shared an update confirming he had been located:

“Kory-Dean has been sighted and is safe. Please respect our privacy as we navigate the next steps as a family. Thank you all for sharing and helping with finding him. Thank you Lord for your protection over him.”

A police spokesperson confirmed “a man reported missing after he did not board a flight at Auckland Airport as expected on Friday has been located and is safe.

Police would like to thank everyone who shared our post and provided information to us.”

The family has asked for privacy during this time.