Missing stepfather urged to contact police

Mike Zhao-Beckenridge. Photo / supplied

A 64-year-old man who is believed to have gone missing with his 11-year-old stepson is being urged to contact police to reassure them that both are okay.

John Beckenridge is thought to be with his stepson Michael Zhao-Beckenridge, known as Mike, who has been missing since Friday.

They were seen on Monday when a farmer contacted police to say he'd seen the pair in remote bush in the Slope Point area in the Catlins.

Detective Sergeant Mark McCloy of Invercargill police said Mr Beckenridge may have grievances about a recent Family Court decision in relation to a parenting order.

"John can call me via 03 471 4800 at any stage and talk with me personally about his situation," Mr McCloy said.

"We understand that John and Mike have a good relationship so we are keen to work to resolve this."

Mr McCloy said it appeared they were living rough in remote places, and with cooler weather approaching police were concerned for their welfare.

"We continue to ask members of the public who may have seen Mike or John to contact us immediately. We also would like to hear from anyone who has information that might help us locate them."

John Beckenridge is is also known as John Robert Lundh, Knut Goran Roland Lundh, or John Bradford.

The pair are thought to be travelling in a dark blue Volkswagen Touareg station wagon, registration number DUY263.

Mike is 1.65m in height, of solid build and of Asian descent. John Beckenridge is 1.75m in height, of medium build and of Swedish descent.

Anyone with information can contact Southern District police on 03 471-5002, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.