A 15-year-old described as “an avid outdoor adventurer” has been found on day five of a search through West Auckland bush.

Police say the boy was safe and well.

They earlier said the boy skipped school on Monday, and the search for him began that evening when he was reported missing.

He was dropped off at 8.15am but did not attend any classes.

Police described the teen as “an avid outdoor adventurer” who loved spending time in the bush, but said his extended absence and lack of communication were out of character.