Family Pleads for Return of Missing Father and Three Children

The family of a New Zealand man who has been missing for four years with his three children has issued a heartfelt plea for their return. Tom Phillips took his children—Ember (9), Maverick (10), and Jayda (12)—from their home in Waikato after losing a custody battle with his former partner, Catherine Phillips. Since then, he has evaded authorities and remains a fugitive, prompting growing concern from relatives and law enforcement.

In a recent letter to her son, Julia Phillips expressed her sorrow over his choices. “Tom – I feel really sad that you thought you had to do this. Not considering how much we love you and can support you,” she wrote. Julia emphasized her longing to reunite with her children and the deep love she feels for them. Her daughter-in-law, Rozzi, echoed these sentiments, sharing with media outlet Stuff, “Every day I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home.”

Authorities believe that Tom and his children have been living off-grid in the rural areas of Waikato. The police have established a reward of £37,000 for information leading to their whereabouts. Reports indicate that Tom has received assistance from others to remain hidden, complicating efforts to locate them. The last confirmed sighting of the family occurred in February 2024, near State Highway 4, south of Te Kūiti.

Catherine has voiced her serious concerns for the safety of her children, particularly regarding their well-being in the wilderness. She criticized Tom for what she described as “child endangerment,” asserting that the children do not deserve to endure such a precarious situation. “They are just innocent children, they do not deserve to be treated this way,” she stated in an emotional video last year.

In addition to custody violations, Tom Phillips has failed to appear in court for charges related to the misuse of police resources and is wanted for an alleged armed robbery at a bank in Te Kūiti that took place in September 2023. His ongoing absence from legal proceedings has raised further alarm among authorities.

The police have made it clear that they are willing to offer immunity against prosecution for anyone who has helped Tom, provided they come forward with information that leads to the safe return of the children. Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders emphasized this approach, highlighting the priority of ensuring the children’s safety over pursuing legal actions against individuals who may have assisted Tom.

Catherine remains particularly worried about Ember, who suffers from asthma and requires regular medical care. She has challenged those who claim the children are safe, asking, “How do you know? Have you seen them? Or is it just bush talk?” Her concerns underscore the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action.

The family’s plea for Tom and the children to come home reflects not only their desperation but also their unwavering love and support. As the search continues, the hope remains that this heartfelt message will reach Tom Phillips and encourage him to end the ordeal for his children and family.