Photo: NZ Police
Police confirmed the boy named Axle was found about 10.45am today and has been reunited with his family.
Axle was found about 3.5km from the house , police constable Richard Reeves told RNZ.
Local broadcaster Uawa Live reports that more than 100 search and rescue volunteers cheered as the crew that found him made their way up the driveway.
RNZ understands the boy and his family are new to the community, which has 800 residents.
Tolaga Bay Civil Defence manager Greg Shelton estimates 200 to 300 people were out overnight - searching the bush and beach, supplying food and water and giving emotional support.
Missing four-year-old Axel has been found alive near Tolaga Bay rnz.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from rnz.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.