Family Appeals for Fugitive Father Tom Phillips to Return from the Wilderness

Fri Dec 05 2025 06:44:42 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The family of Tom Phillips, missing with his children since 2021, makes an emotional plea for their safe return.

Tom Phillips’ family expresses deep concern for his safety and that of his children, last seen together in New Zealand's wilderness, and urges him to return home.

The family of a father who eloped into New Zealand's wilderness with his three children nearly four years ago is urgently appealing for his safe return. Tom Phillips has been missing since December 2021, when he took his children - Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12 - after a family conflict. The children and their father were spotted for the first time in public last October, when teenagers encountered them hiking through a remote area and recorded their interaction.

In a heartfelt message to Phillips, his mother expressed her daily longing, stating, "Everyday I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home." His sister, Rozzi Phillips, also reached out in an exclusive interview, emphasizing the family's love and support, saying, "I miss you, and I miss being part of your life."

Rozzi described her brother as a skillful builder, suggesting he may have established a makeshift shelter in the wilderness. Alongside her comments, a handwritten note from their mother revealed her sadness over the family's separation and implored Phillips to consider the love waiting for him and the children.

Authorities believe Phillips and his children are hiding in the rugged western Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. An NZ$80,000 reward has been offered for information leading to their discovery. Over the last year, there have been sporadic sightings, including one in October, when teenage pig hunters encountered them. In the footage, Phillips appeared to lead his children, all in camouflage attire, and reportedly armed. Local media shared that the children indicated to the hunters that they were alone in their whereabouts.

A warrant has been issued for Phillips' arrest in connection to a bank robbery in Te Kuiti, further complicating the situation. Police have advised against approaching Phillips, citing potential armed threats, and indicated that he may have outside assistance in evading the law. The ongoing search for the Phillips family continues as authorities and loved ones remain hopeful for their safe return.