New Zealand police released night-time CCTV that they believe shows New Zealand fugitive father Tom Phillips with one of his children outside a Piopio store. The pair used headlamps, forced their way in with a power tool, and left on a quad bike with grocery items, Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders said.
Police: Children’s Safety Comes First
Police urged the public to report sightings and stressed that the investigation remains centred on the welfare of the three children.
“At the heart of this are three children who have been away from their home for four years. Their wellbeing is our main focus,” Saunders said.
Four Years on The Run, Repeat Piopio Target
Phillips disappeared with his three children in December 2021 and has evaded capture in Waikato’s rugged country since then. Investigators say the Piopio business had been targeted before, noting an unsuccessful attempt in November 2023. The New Zealand fugitive father also faces charges including aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Rare Sightings Keep The Case Alive
The latest footage is the clearest public look at the case since October 2024, when video filmed in bush near Marokopa appeared to show Phillips hiking with his children. That sighting sparked a large search of the area. The renewed CCTV release aims to generate fresh leads as the New Zealand fugitive father remains at large.
Call For Information
Police believe Phillips has received help and are assessing what the new burglary suggests about his support network. They asked anyone who saw the quad bike travelling between Piopio and Marokopa in the early hours to come forward. The priority, they say, is to bring the children out safely and resolve the manhunt without confrontation.
