A rare Labrador, who is well known around Whangārei Heads for collecting rubbish with his owner, has been found after he was feared stolen.
On Monday, Gerry Leigh disappeared while he was out with his owner Peita Ngatai, who was tending to the garden.
But after a 1 NEWS story yesterday drew the attention of hundreds who shared his photos, Gerry Leigh's breeder posted on Facebook that he had been found.
"Much to their relief and delight, Gerry Leigh is now home with his owners Dot and Peita," Denise Roberts wrote.
It's believed the 16-month-old fox red Labrador was dropped nearby during the night.
"Gerry Leigh appears to have been well looked after," she wrote, but added, "his collar had been removed and put back on back to front, supporting their suspicions that he been with someone.
"Whoever you are, thank you for doing the right thing."
"It's the best news ever," Gerry Leigh's owner Dot Ngatai told 1 NEWS.
This morning Dot heard a dog whimpering after following the noise she discovered Gerry Leigh at their neighbour's property.
Although Gerry Leigh was found at the neighbour's property Dot said he defintely wasn't there while he was missing as the neighbours were also keeping a close eye out for him.
Gerry Leigh is safe and well.
"We took him to the vets and every thing's a-ok," Ms Ngatai said.
"I just want to say a huge thanks to our family and friends and everyone who shared the post."
"Gerry Leigh has been treated to a lot of cuddles today after his ordeal.
"We're keeping him close, we won't be letting him out of our sight.
"We seriously can't believe he's home, but grateful he is."
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