Taupo police are looking for Samuel Robert John Samson, who they allege took his daughter, 5, from school without permission.
The girl, a Wairakei Primary School pupil, was in another family member's legal custody. She was taken on Wednesday afternoon. Detective Sergeant Tony Manunui said they knew Samson was in the Rotorua area on Thursday.
It was possible he was trying to get to Auckland where he has other family members, particularly in the Massey area.
He is described as 31, male, Maori, 178cm tall and of thin build. He is also said to have his Rottweiler dog with him.
Mr Manunui said police had no immediate concerns for the girl's safety but needed to speak to Samson to ensure this. He urged Samson to take his daughter to the nearest police station "in order to resolve this situation in the best interests of all parties".