Police are encouraging parents to talk to children about how to keep themselves safe when they're out in public.

It comes as the search for the man who snatched five-year-old girl Shekinah Relies-Skipper in Palmerston North on Friday continues.

Inspector Sarah Stewart said the phrase "stranger danger" is outdated.

"Most children who are taken by someone know the person in some way. So, it is key to speak with your children on behaviours they should be avoiding no matter who is displaying it."

She said knowing what to do in a potentially dangerous situation makes a big difference.

"There are some key safety precautions that children can use to help prevent these incidents occurring, including walking with friend's or older relatives, knowing where to go for help, and how to raise the alarm as soon as possible."

Young Relies-Skipper was pulled into a car by the man while walking to school, and was returned just a few hours later.

Inspector Stewart said the man is in his late 50s, with salt and pepper hair and facial stubble, Caucasian, around 5'9 tall, and of slim build. Stewart said he has a scruffy look, and may have some teeth missing.

Anyone who saw someone matching the man's description in the Shamrock Street area on Friday morning should call police.

Police are also examining CCTV footage to help with their investigation, and trying to locate the man's late model white Nissan Maxima.

Inspector Stewart said the incident is rare here in New Zealand, but it's every family's worst nightmare.