Clutha police were close to launching a search and rescue operation in the Blue Mountains on Thursday when the missing person was found.
Senior Sergeant Richard Whitmore, of Balclutha, said two men had gone hunting on Wednesday but their vehicle broke down.
One stayed with the vehicle while the other walked out to get help, but when the first man returned the following morning, his friend had gone.
Sen Sgt Whitmore said that after initial inquiries police had been preparing to launch a full-scale search and rescue operation when it was discovered the missing man had turned up at the Beaumont Hotel, safe and well but slightly dehydrated.
