In December 2021, Phillips took his children—Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12—amid a custody dispute, and has since been evading authorities. His family expressed their love for him and the children, hoping to support them should they come back. Though sightings of the family have occurred, efforts to locate them continue.
Family of Missing NZ Father Calls for His Return Amid Ongoing Search
Family of Missing NZ Father Calls for His Return Amid Ongoing Search
The family of Tom Phillips, a father who disappeared with his three children nearly four years ago, has publicly urged him to return home, highlighting their ongoing concern for his well-being.
The family of a father, who has been missing along with his three children in New Zealand’s wilderness for close to four years, is making a heartfelt plea for his return. Tom Phillips, who vanished in December 2021 during a contentious custody battle, had previously lost legal rights to his children. Police have stated that the ongoing search for him and his children, Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12, remains a priority, with a comprehensive effort directed towards locating them.
For the first time in years, the children and Phillips were seen trekking through bushland last October by a group of teenagers, which sparked renewed hopes of locating them. Phillips' mother and sister directly addressed him in a recent interview, expressing their deep love and readiness to help him transition back to stability. Phillips’ sister, Rozzi, expressed longing for family connection and reassured him that they want to support both him and the children.
Authorities suggest Phillips has been living hidden in the western Waikato area and have since posted a reward for information regarding his whereabouts. They believe he is currently being supported by others in avoiding capture, raising concerns not just for his actions but for the safety and well-being of his children. In light of recent events, including a warrant for Phillips' arrest following an alleged bank robbery in Te Kuiti, police urge the public to exercise caution and avoid direct confrontation if they encounter him.
The community continues to monitor the situation closely as the search for this fugitive father and his children remains active, with hopeful calls from the family for a reunion resonating through New Zealand.
