Shin Takizawa (18) lives and works in Queenstown as a chef.
He was last seen in Tarras at 4pm, and earlier that afternoon he withdrew money from a cash machine at Remarkables Park, Queenstown.
Mr Takizawa is driving a red Mazda Cronos car, registration number XJ2074, and was last seen travelling on State Highway 8.
Police believe he may now be in the McKenzie Country area.
Sergeant Derek Ealson, of Queenstown, said inquiries with the Department of Conservation in Tekapo and Mt Cook, and with local backpackers and hotels in the area, have failed to provide any information about Mr Takizawa's whereabouts.
He is described as being of Japanese descent, slight to medium build and height, with short-length black hair, and he was last seen wearing a distinctive multi-coloured baseball cap and casual clothing.
Anyone with information should contact Sergeant Ealson on (03) 441-1600. Alternatively, the public can provide information anonymously via the Crime Stoppers line 0800 555 111.
