Police are searching for a German tourist who has caused concerns after asking pre-teen girls for directions in the southern police district.

The man's behaviour has resulted in parents calling police on two occasions to report him.

The incidents occurred recently in the southern police district, Senior Sergeant Mark Donaldson, of Dunedin, said.

On one occasion the man approached a six-year-old girl, and "took off" when approached by an adult.

His Toyota Hiace camper rental vehicle was due to be returned to Dunedin late this month.

"We've got concerns about him, obviously," Donaldson said.

Donaldson would not be specific about where in the southern police district the incidents happened.