The family of Tom Phillips, a father who has been on the run with his three children for nearly four years in the New Zealand wilderness, has made a poignant plea for their safe return. Phillips took his children, Ember (9), Maverick (10), and Jayda (12), from their home in December 2021 during an ongoing custody conflict. Since then, national authorities have been engaged in a search while the family awaits their long-overdue reunion.
The first confirmed sighting of Phillips and the children occurred last October, when a group of teenagers encountered them in the bush and recorded their interactions. In an emotional appeal, Phillips's mother expressed her anguish in writing, stating, "Everyday I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home." His sister, Rozzi, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the family’s love and readiness to offer support. "I really want to see you and the kids...," she said, revealing the depth of her sorrow and desire for connection.
Police assert that Phillips does not possess legal custody of his children and that his journey into the wilderness is a result of losing their custody to their mother. They believe that he has been camping in the western Waikato region of the North Island. Despite the ongoing search, sightings have been sporadic, with a notable appearance last year when teenagers spotted Phillips leading his children through rugged terrain, equipped with camouflage clothing.
The situation escalated after authorities issued a warrant for Phillips regarding a suspected bank robbery in Te Kuiti, leading officials to suspect that he could be armed and dangerous. In addition, there are claims that he is receiving assistance from outside parties in eluding capture. The police and public are urged to exercise caution if encountering the fugitive as the situation remains precarious for the children involved.
