A body has been located during a search for a missing hunter near Lake Manapouri.

A search was launched on Monday evening after the man failed to return from a solo hunting trip off Supply Bay Road.

He had intended to return by 2pm that day. When he did not, Police were notified and a coordinated search began.

At approximately 6.15pm on Monday, a body believed to be the missing hunter was found by Search and Rescue teams in the Manapouri area.

The death has been referred to the Coroner.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time,” Police said in a statement. Support is being offered to the family.

Police have also acknowledged the efforts of Fiordland Land Search and Rescue and local members of the public who assisted in the search.