Police are actively seeking a 25-year-old man in respect to a family violence incident in Whangarei.

The alleged incident occurred about 12.30pm on Saturday when police say the man has been involved in an incident with other family members and also his three-year-old son.

During the course of the incident, there is an allegation of the three-year-old being assaulted, say police.

"The man left the scene with his son on foot and has not been seen since. Concerns are held for the safety of the three-year-old, and police are seeking assistance from the community to locate the man and his son."

The sought man is Tehuru (Tony) PARATENE, aged 25 years and lives in Whangarei.

His son is Kaui PARATENE, aged three years. Any sightings or information on this case please call: Whangarei Police Station 09 430 4500 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111