The following statement may be attributed to Acting Senior Sergeant Nigel McMorran, of the Tasman District Coordination Centre:
Tasman Police have located the missing 2-year-old girl and her 4-month-old puppy at approximately 11:20pm tonight.
The excellent result follows an extensive 5-hour search by Police, Search and Rescue volunteers, neighbours and family.
A Search and Rescue volunteer located them safe and well in the bush, at least 3km away from the family's home.
The girl and the puppy have been returned to their very relieved family.
Tasman Police was inundated with offers from members of the public to help with search this evening in every way possible.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the local community for their help and support.
ENDS
Police Media Centre