New Zealand Father Who Hid with Children for Years Killed by Police
A New Zealand man who spent nearly four years on the run with his three children was shot dead by police early on Monday, bringing a dramatic end to one of the country’s most puzzling manhunts.
The incident happened in the small rural town of Piopio, Waikato, in the early hours of the morning. Tom Phillips, accompanied by one of his children, had just robbed an agricultural supplies store. Police confronted him. Shots were fired.
A police officer was critically injured after being hit in the head by a high-powered rifle. “The officer’s injuries are survivable,” said Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Jill Rogers, “but he was shot multiple times, and further surgery is expected.”
Phillips was fatally wounded in the exchange. The child with him was taken into custody and is now cooperating with authorities.
Immediately after the shootout, the other two children’s whereabouts were unknown, raising fears for their safety.
Roughly 13 hours later, they were found alone at a remote forest campsite near Marokopa, the family’s last known home.
Authorities said the child who had been with Phillips helped narrow down the search.
The disappearance of Phillips and his children first shocked New Zealand in December 2021.
Following a custody dispute, he vanished into the rugged forests near Marokopa. For years, sightings were sporadic.
The family never strayed far from their remote North Island settlement, but clues were rare.
Authorities later confirmed that Phillips did not have legal custody of the children.
Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Saunders said the children had not received formal education or medical care during their time in hiding.
Some locals are believed to have assisted him, complicating the search.
Phillips had also been wanted for crimes while on the run, including an armed bank robbery in May 2023.
Surveillance footage captured him committing offences with one child by his side, raising concerns about public safety.
The children’s mother, known only as Cat, spoke to Radio New Zealand on Monday. “They have been dearly missed every day for nearly four years, and we are looking forward to welcoming them home with love and care,” she said, her voice filled with relief.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the incident “absolutely tragic,” while an investigation into the police shooting is now underway.
SIGNIFICANT UPDATE: (*this case has previously been covered by TCU)
⚠️ WARNING: This post contains graphic descriptions of a fatal shooting & missing children.
Fugitive father Tom Phillips, who was on the run with his three young children for nearly four years, has been shot… pic.twitter.com/42SDABXC22
— True Crime Updates (@TrueCrimeUpdat) September 8, 2025
The Independent Police Conduct Authority is reviewing the case to ensure all actions taken were appropriate.
The saga has gripped New Zealand, highlighting the tension between law enforcement, parental instincts, and the protection of vulnerable children.
With the surviving children now safe, authorities are working to support them as they adjust to life after years in isolation.
This marks the end of a long, complex chapter for the North Island community, but the story of survival and pursuit will remain in New Zealanders’ minds for years to come.
