A runner lost in the Kaimai Ranges after separating from her husband and children built a bivouac for shelter in case she had to spend the night.

The 42-year-old was reported missing in the bush at the end of Whakamarama Road about 3pm on Sunday.

Search and rescue volunteers, and the Tauranga-based Trustpower TECT rescue helicopter were involved in a search for a runner who went missing in the Kaimai Ranges in the weekend.

She had gone with her husband and two children to walk the Leyland O'Brien Tramway Track on the western Bay of Plenty side of the ranges.

They set off at 11am, says Tauranga police Search and Rescue Sergeant Craig Madden.

The woman intended to run the track to the north-south junction and back, while the family walked the same track.

"After she failed to return and a search by the husband did not locate her, he called police.”

Police got the call about 3pm.

Search and rescue volunteers, and the Tauranga-based Trustpower TECT rescue helicopter began a land and air search.

The ground team found her just before 6pm.

"After crossing a stream the runner had mistaken an old tramway track for the main track.

"Once she realised she had taken a wrong turn she tried to reorient herself without success."

Craig says the woman made the right decision to stay put.

"She built herself a bivvy for shelter believing she may have to spend the night in the bush."

He says the woman was in "good health" and was found in reasonable time as she had told her trip intentions to her husband who was able to raise the alarm. She was also carrying a small amount of food and extra clothing.

However, he urges families to be careful when initiating searches.

"Friends of the family had entered the bush to look for the female before the search teams had arrived and although they had the best intentions and we had a great result, this can contaminate clues for the tracking teams.

"We can use the help of friends and family at times but we need to do this in a controlled manner. This ensures the safety of everyone involved."

Running bush tracks has become common practice, says Craig.

He suggests runners take a map and compass in case they lose their sense of direction.

- Stuff/Phillipa Yalden