A group of four people, including a 4-year-old girl, who failed to return from a short walk in bush near Dunedin were found early this morning.

Family members reported the group of three 22-year-old women and the young child overdue to police after they failed to return from a short walk in the Silverpeaks.

A police spokeswoman said they were found about 1am, safe and well.

Further information would be released shortly.

About 35 police officers and LandSAR volunteers were involved in the search. Search dogs and a helicopter were also utilised.

The weather in the area was mild but police believe the group are unprepared for a lengthy stay in the bush and are unlikely to have food and water.