The family of Tom Phillips, who took his three children into the New Zealand wilderness nearly four years ago, has made a heartfelt plea for his return. Phillips vanished with Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12, in December 2021 amidst a contentious custody dispute. After remaining out of sight, they were surprisingly spotted last October by teenagers hiking in the bush, leading to growing concerns and renewed appeals from Phillips' family for him to come home.
His family has sounded an emotional note, with his mother stating, "Everyday I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home." His sister, Rozzi Phillips, emphasized the ongoing love and support waiting for him, telling Stuff, "I miss you, and I really want to see you and the kids." She described her brother as capable, believing he may have constructed a shelter in the wilderness.
A handwritten note from their mother, Julia, expressed sadness for Tom’s choices and an enduring desire to connect with him and the children again. "It hurts every time I see photos of the children and of you," it read, emphasizing the love still present for them.
New Zealand authorities believe Tom Phillips does not hold legal custody of his children and suspect he has been hiding in the western Waikato region. Law enforcement has offered a reward of NZ$80,000 for information regarding their whereabouts and conducted searches following sightings, including an incident where local teenagers captured video footage of the family in camouflaged clothing.
This sighting led to a brief but intensive search using military help. Additionally, a warrant for Tom Phillips’ arrest was issued related to an alleged bank robbery in Te Kuiti, with police warning the public that he might be armed and to avoid approaching him. It is suspected that he has assistance in remaining hidden. The family's plea continues to resonate, emphasizing the hope for safety and reunion amidst ongoing uncertainties.
His family has sounded an emotional note, with his mother stating, "Everyday I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home." His sister, Rozzi Phillips, emphasized the ongoing love and support waiting for him, telling Stuff, "I miss you, and I really want to see you and the kids." She described her brother as capable, believing he may have constructed a shelter in the wilderness.
A handwritten note from their mother, Julia, expressed sadness for Tom’s choices and an enduring desire to connect with him and the children again. "It hurts every time I see photos of the children and of you," it read, emphasizing the love still present for them.
New Zealand authorities believe Tom Phillips does not hold legal custody of his children and suspect he has been hiding in the western Waikato region. Law enforcement has offered a reward of NZ$80,000 for information regarding their whereabouts and conducted searches following sightings, including an incident where local teenagers captured video footage of the family in camouflaged clothing.
This sighting led to a brief but intensive search using military help. Additionally, a warrant for Tom Phillips’ arrest was issued related to an alleged bank robbery in Te Kuiti, with police warning the public that he might be armed and to avoid approaching him. It is suspected that he has assistance in remaining hidden. The family's plea continues to resonate, emphasizing the hope for safety and reunion amidst ongoing uncertainties.
