Police are searching for a Melbourne man who disappeared in Auckland’s North Shore on the eve of his return flight.

Liam James Drew was last seen at Saturday 6.30pm on Shakespeare Rd in Milford, his mother Rebekah Simpson said.

Simpson told the Herald he lived in Melbourne with his father and was visiting family for the holidays.

The 20-year-old was due to fly back to Australia today, she said.

Melbourne man Liam James Drew was last seen in Torbay, Auckland and was due to fly back to Australia today, his mother says.

In an appeal on social media, Simpson said the family had “grave concerns” for his well-being and they had contacted New Zealand and Australian police.

“Our family have been through a lot the last 12 months and he is carrying a lot of heavy emotions.”

Liam James Drew was last seen leaving a house in Torbay around 1pm Saturday.

Police said they received a missing persons report overnight and have been making enquiries since.

Australian police have been contacted for comment.