Hibbard was released from Warren Gatland's squad last week after picking up an ankle injury in Wales' 33-28 defeat at the hands of Australia.
Despite being deemed unfit for action against Fiji on Saturday, Hibbard came off the bench for his club against Harlequins a day earlier, with the Welsh management expressing their disappointment at his inclusion.
However, Howley claims the problem has now been resolved and that Hibbard is back with the Wales squad preparing for this weekend's clash with New Zealand.
"Warren spoke to Richard this morning and it has been resolved," he said. "Early on last week, we felt it was imperative Richard was put into a boot after presenting following the Australia game.
"We had to release him because he wasn’t in the 23 for Fiji and he has gone to Gloucester and they felt he was ok to go on the bench.
"Obviously things can change from a medical perspective from the Monday to the Friday.
"In terms of all the information we had and with it being an international game, we felt Richard wouldn’t have been fit to go on against Fiji.
"If we had involved him in the 23, he probably wouldn't have been available for selection for the New Zealand game.
"Gloucester felt he was fit to go on the bench and promised he wouldn't go on. He has obviously gone on in the last 10 minutes and has presented himself sore this morning.
"But I don't think he is a concern.
"We are happy that the position has been resolved. Richard is back with us and we look forward now to the All Blacks game."