Family of New Zealand Fugitive Urges Him to Return with Children

Tue Oct 14 2025 17:07:16 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Family members of Tom Phillips, who has been missing with his three children for almost four years, have made a heartfelt plea for their return.

In a recent appeal, the family of Tom Phillips, a father who disappeared into the wilderness with his three children—Ember, nine; Maverick, ten; and Jayda, twelve—has publicly urged him to come home. Phillips vanished from their family home in December 2021 following a dispute with their mother, prompting an extensive nationwide search. For the first time since their disappearance, Phillips was sighted last October by a group of teenagers in the Waitomo region, leading to renewed concerns and appeals.

In a poignant message, Phillips’ mother expressed her longing for their reunion, stating, "Everyday I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home." Rozzi Phillips, Tom's sister, added, "There's a lot of love and there's a lot of support, and we're ready to help you walk through what you need to walk through." The family provided media outlets with a letter from their mother imploring Tom to reconsider his choices, emphasizing the love and support from family awaiting them.

Authorities believe that Phillips, who lacks legal custody of the children, has been living off the grid in a remote area of New Zealand. The police have issued a reward for information leading to their whereabouts and confirmed several sightings, including one where Phillips was reportedly armed. This has raised serious concerns for both his and the children’s safety, prompting authorities to caution the public against approaching him.

As the search continues, family members remain hopeful for a change of heart from Phillips, emphasizing the emotional impact of his absence on loved ones and the potential for a fresh start if they return.