Phillips already faces a range of charges, including aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and unlawful possession of a firearm, New Zealand news outlet Stuff reports.
In one incident in May 2023, Phillips and one of his children were allegedly armed when they robbed an ANZ bank in Te Kūiti, escaping on a black motorcycle. In another, Phillips was spotted at a Bunnings store in August 2023, quickly exiting when he realised he’d been recognised.
Despite several sightings since going on the run, Tom Phillips has evaded police for almost four years.Credit: New Zealand Police
In June 2024, NZ Police announced an $80,000 reward for anyone who came forward with information that led to the discovery of the children, renewing their search efforts with checkpoints and aerial searches.
“Immunity against prosecution will be considered for anyone who has committed an offence in assisting Tom Phillips, if they provide information or evidence which leads to the location and safe return of the children,” Saunders said at the time.
“Police have concerns for the welfare of the children who have been living in isolation… with no connection to others and without formal education and healthcare.”
While various tips were received, none of them led police to locate the family.
The sighting of the Phillips family on farmland near Marokopa.Credit: TVNZ
The most recent sighting came in October 2024, when the family was filmed crossing farmland by two boys who were hunting pigs about an hour’s drive from the famous Waitomo Caves on North Island near Marokopa. They were clad in camouflage and carrying large backpacks.
One of the boys told Stuff the eldest girl, Jayda, spoke to him.
“I said, ‘This is private property’, and she was like, ‘Yeah … duh.’ Then I asked, ‘Does anyone know you’re on here?’ and she said, ‘No, just you guys.’ ”
Loading
The family kept walking towards Marokopa. The boys didn’t think the children were in any distress, but took a video as evidence – believing they had caught poachers in the act.
The sighting was the first time Phillips had been seen with all three children, sparking another massive search effort. After three days of scouring the region via land and air, authorities abandoned the effort.
The children’s mother, Cat, told The New Zealand Herald at the time that she was relieved to see her “babies” alive.
“I’m so happy that they’re all there,” she said. “I’m so relieved to see all three of my babies. They’re all alive.”
The children’s mother, Cat, said she was waiting “with open arms” for them to return.
How Phillips and his children have survived years in the bush and evaded authorities since going on the run is not known, but police suspect he has been helped by supporters. Phillips does not have legal custody of the children.
The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.
