Police are confirming a man reported missing in the Taupō area in December 2022 has been located, deceased.

"Lofty Maki, 63, of Murapara was reported missing in early December 2022," says a police spokesperson.

"Extensive searching and investigations at the time did not locate Mr Maki.

"In April 2023 human remains were located by hunters in the Kaingaroa Forest.

"DNA testing involving Mr Maki’s close relatives took three months to return a result, finally establishing that the deceased person was Mr Maki.

"Police offer their condolences to Mr Maki’s whānau.

"The case has been referred to the Coroner."