Police are appealing for public assistance to find a man missing from Lake Macquarie.

Norman Caves, aged 27, was last seen at a home on Cedar Street, Cardiff, about 9.30am yesterday.

He is described as being of Pacific Islander/Maori appearance, about 175cm tall, with a thin build, black short hair and brown eyes.

He was last seen wearing a mustard-coloured jumper and khaki-coloured shorts and carrying a green backpack.

Family and friends hold concerns for his welfare.

Anyone who may have seen Norman is urged to contact Toronto Police Station on (02) 4088 1099 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000