The 32-year-old was last seen leaving Manuka Hut in Ashburton Lakes District last Wednesday.
Searchers found Hewitt about 80km away, near the Rakaia river late Monday afternoon.
Sixteen members of the Methven land search and rescue group had been searching in cold, wet weather when Hewitt was reported overdue.
Police would like to thank those volunteers who had assisted in locating Hewitt. Police are reminding trampers to take appropriate measures when travelling alone.