New Zealand Police Release New Footage of Fugitive Dad with Children

Tue Sep 23 2025 10:54:27 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

CCTV footage shows Tom Phillips, a fugitive who vanished with his three children, engaging in a suspected burglary. The police are intensifying efforts to locate the family.

New Zealand police have unveiled CCTV footage of Tom Phillips, a fugitive who disappeared with his children three years ago. The video shows him and one child allegedly breaking into a store, raising concerns regarding their safety and well-being. As the search continues, authorities appeal to the public for any sightings or information about the family.

New Zealand police have released fresh CCTV footage believed to show a fugitive who disappeared with his three children more than three years ago.

The night-time footage shows two people in full-body clothing - who police are confident is Tom Phillips and one of his children - apparently breaking into a store before driving away on a quad bike.

Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders told a press conference on Friday that the pair had made off with some grocery items.

Mr. Phillips disappeared into the wilderness with his three children in December 2021 after losing legal custody to their mother.

Since then, a national search has been underway for Mr. Phillips and his children: Ember, Maverick, and Jayda. The latest footage is intended to encourage the community to report sightings of them.

The apparent break-in occurred on Wednesday around 02:00 local time (Tuesday 14:00 GMT) in Piopio, a small town in northern New Zealand. Police believe Mr. Phillips attempted to target the same store back in November 2023.

At the heart of this are three children who have been away from their home for four years. Their well-being is our main focus, Detective Senior Sergeant Saunders emphasized.

Mr. Phillips is facing a range of charges including aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and illegally possessing a firearm.

The police are considering the implications of this burglary, questioning whether it indicates a falling out with any potential accomplices or if Mr. Phillips is simply confident enough to commit crimes in the open.

Last October, the family was spotted for the first time since their disappearance when teenagers filmed them trekking through the wilderness. It was reported that the children had not been in contact with the outside world for years.

Authorities previously offered a cash reward for information leading to the children’s safe return, but the offer expired. Mr. Phillips's family has publicly pleaded for his return, urging him to come home to safety.

His mother expressed deep concern, saying, I feel really sad that you thought you had to do this. Not considering how much we love you and can support you. It hurts every time I see photos of the children and of you and see some of your stuff that is still here.