UPDATED 9.40pm

Police have located an 8-year-old Hamilton boy who went missing earlier tonight.

Aaron Whinn was reported missing about 6pm this evening.

Waikato police confirmed he had been found around 9.30pm.

Earlier, Waikato police said Aaron was last seen at Hockin Pl in Fairfield.

"Police and his family have serious concerns for his safety,'' a statement said.

Police officers carried out enquiries on the ground and searched the area.

The Waikato Police also used social media to spread the word of Aaron's disappearance.

A Facebook post about the boy's disappearance has been shared almost 4000 times by members of the public in just under an hour.

"Hope he's found soon. Every parent's worst nightmare,'' one person wrote.