Queenstown Police are concerned about the well-being of a local man who was last seen on Tuesday (7 August).

Eighteen-year-old Shin Takizawa was last seen at Tarras about 4pm on Tuesday.

Mr Takizawa who was born in New Zealand and is of Japanese descent, resides and works in Queenstown, as a restaurant chef. He was reported missing last night by his workmates, and his mother who he lives with.

Earlier on Tuesday afternoon before the sighting in Tarras he had withdrawn cash from a money machine at Remarkables Park, Queenstown.

Mr Takizawa is driving a red Mazda Cronos car, registration number XRJ2074, and was last seen travelling on State Highway 8. Police believe he may now be in the McKenzie Country area.

"We have real concerns about his safety and would ask anyone who has seen Mr Takizawa or his red Mazda Cronos car to get in touch with Queenstown Police," said Sergeant Derek Ealson, of Queenstown Police.

Police 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," Sergeant Ealson said.

Mr Takizawa is described as being of Japanese descent, slight to medium build and height, with short-length black hair. He was last seen wearing a distinctive multi-coloured baseball cap and casual clothing.

Mr Takizawa is due back at work tomorrow morning.

Anyone with information or sightings of Mr Takizawa should contact Sergeant Derek Ealson of Queenstown Police on (03) 441-1600. Alternatively, the public can provide information anonymously via the Crime Stoppers line 0800 555 111.