New Zealand Father and Children Spotted for First Time in Years

A father from New Zealand, who disappeared into the wilderness with his three children three years ago, has been seen with them for the first time since their disappearance. Tom Phillips became the subject of a nationwide search effort after he vanished from their family home in December 2021, following a dispute with the children’s mother. The police had suspected that Phillips and his children were living in hiding in the western Waikato region of the North Island.

The breakthrough sighting, considered credible by New Zealand Police, was reported last week by a group of teenage pig hunters trekking through the bush. They recorded the encounter on their phones and briefly conversed with one of the children. According to the father of one of the teenagers, who spoke with New Zealand’s 1News, the child replied “only you” when asked if anyone knew of their presence there.

Detected on October 3, the sighting depicted Tom Phillips, accompanied by his children, navigating rugged terrain while dressed in camouflage clothing. The New Zealand police were notified about the sighting at around 19:00 local time, which instigated a three-day search operation involving police and army helicopters in the area.

New Zealand Police spokesperson, Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders, described the sighting as “positive information” for the family, noting that “it will be reassuring for the children’s wider family.” This is the first time Phillips has been seen with all three children since their disappearance.

The children’s mother, Cat, expressed her relief and emotion following the development, indicating to local media, “I’m so happy that they’re all there. I’m so relieved to see all three of my babies. They’re all alive.” However, she criticized her ex-partner, accusing him of using the children as “pawns in his game,” and urged authorities to intensify their efforts to locate him and the children.

Authorities believe Phillips is receiving assistance from other parties and have reiterated their call for any such helpers to come forward with information. Last year, a warrant was issued for Phillips’ arrest in connection with a bank robbery in Te Kuiti, a town in the North Island, where he was believed to have been involved with an accomplice. The police have warned that Phillips is likely armed and cautioned the public not to approach him.

In lieu of the ongoing search, New Zealand Police have asked the public to continue providing any information regarding the whereabouts of Tom Phillips and his children.