In 2021, Tom Phillips and his three children — Jayda, 12, Maverick, 10, and Ember, 9 — vanished from their family home in New Zealand following an alleged argument with their mother, Cat. The family was last seen on October 3 that year, and the search for them continues.
Cat later spoke publicly after teenage boys reportedly spotted Tom and the children trekking through the bush and recorded a video. She said it felt like “Christmas came early,” but accused Tom of using their children as “pawns” in a personal dispute.
Tom’s mother, Julia Phillips, made an emotional plea for their return, saying, “Every day I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home.” She expressed sadness that her son felt he had to disappear and told her grandchildren, “I love you so much and really miss being part of your lives.”
Tom’s sister, Rozzi Phillips, also appealed to him, saying the family was ready to help him “walk through what you need to walk through.” She described Tom as a capable builder who might have constructed a hut for himself and the children in the bush.
Authorities believe Tom and the children have been living in the North Island’s western Waikato region since he lost legal custody. Witnesses said he appeared armed and bearded, while the children wore masks and carried backpacks.
When asked if anyone knew where they were, one of the children allegedly replied, “Only you.” Police have urged the public not to approach Tom, warning he is likely armed and may have outside assistance.
A warrant was also issued for Tom’s arrest over a Te Kuiti bank robbery.
New Zealand Police previously offered an NZ$80,000 reward for information leading to the family’s location.