Sharp-eyed farmers have helped police recover a $120,000 tractor stolen from Otorohanga In May - and driven around 150km through back roads to a farm near Taupo.

Once news of the theft got round the rural community, farmers who recalled seeing the vehicle being driven past their gate, informed police.

A 22-year-old man has now been arrested for theft, and his 44-year-old father is charged with receiving.