Police are concerned for the safety of Willow Perkins (14), of Ohai, after she fled from an Invercargill home this week.
She is believed to be in the company of a 50-year-old Nightcaps man, John Barrett, Detective Scott MacKenzie, of Winton, said.
The pair may be travelling around the lower South Island in his red 1997 Toyota Cavalier sports car, registration number AYZ159. Police appealed for information about the pair, who were spotted in Dunedin and Waikouaiti last week, before the teenager returned to her father's home on Saturday.
She is described as being 165cm tall, of small build, with dark hair, green/blue eyes and of European-Maori descent.
Mr Barrett is of medium build and 179cm in height.
Det MacKenzie declined to comment on whether the pair were in a relationship.
He emphasised Miss Perkins was with the older man of her own free will, but said police were concerned for her safety.
Anyone with information about the pair or their whereabouts should contact their local police station or could provide information anonymously, via the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.
