Michael Zhao-Beckenridge (11) has been missing since last Friday and police believe he was intially willingly in the company of his stepfather, John Beckenridge (64).
"We really want to resolve this situation. We understand that John may have grievances about a recent Family Court decision in relation to a parenting order but the current situation is not the best way to resolve things," Detective Sergeant Mark McCloy, of Invercargill, said.
"John can call me via 03 471-4800 at any stage and talk with me personally about his situation. We understand that John and Mike have a good
relationship so we are keen to work to resolve this," Det Sgt McCloy said.
On Monday, a farmer contacted police to say he thought he'd seen the pair in a remote bush location in the Slope Point area in the Catlins.
Police have also received information about a number of other as-yet-unconfirmed sightings in the lower South Island over the last few days.
John Beckenridge is also known as John Robert Lundh, Knut Goran Roland Lundh, or John Bradford. Mr Beckenridge is Mike's estranged stepfather and his contact with Mike is in breach of a parenting order.
Police say they are thought to be travelling in a dark blue Volkswagen Touareg stationwagon, registration number DUY263.
Mike is of solid build and of Asian descent. John Beckenridge is 1.75m in height, of medium build and of Swedish descent.
If anyone sees the pair they should contact police on 111 immediately. Anyone with information should contact the Southern District Command Centre on 03 471-5002.
Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
