Police locate missing 7 year-old girl from Linden, Tawa

Police have found the 7 year-old girl, missing since overnight on Tuesday, but are yet to locate her father Lau Leota.

Detective Sergeant Dan Keno of the District Child Protection Team says Mr Leota dropped the 7 year-old girl back to her home in Linden, Tawa about an hour ago.

"We are yet to speak to this young girl but we can confirm she doesn't appear to need urgent medical attention."

"Our hunt now continues for her 41 year-old father, who we believe will still be somewhere in the Wellington district."

Dan Keno says, "I'd like to thank the media for their assistance this afternoon, which has been much appreciated."

"I urge Mr Leota to phone Police or text us on 027 238 6339, or call into any Police Station so we can resolve this matter as soon as possible."

Leota is believed to be driving a red 1987 Toyota Corolla with a registration number of UC4702.