A public inquiry has released its findings regarding the case of Tom Phillips, a fugitive who took his three children into New Zealand’s North Island wilderness in 2021 without legal custody and remained missing for nearly four years. Phillips was fatally shot by police in August 2025 during a confrontation. The inquiry examined how various government agencies engaged with Phillips and his family before and after the disappearance.
Investigators determined that police and Oranga Tamariki, the children’s ministry, significantly underestimated the dangers posed to the children during extended periods both before and after Phillips vanished. Police had intentionally pursued a low-key strategy based on the incorrect assumption that the children faced no welfare risks. Oranga Tamariki dismissed concerns raised by the children’s mother and other family members after Phillips’ initial disappearance, incorrectly assuring the family court that the children were safe. The agency’s failure to seriously engage with the maternal family and the children’s mother meant opportunities to prevent or complicate the second disappearance were lost.
The inquiry noted that authorities possessed concerning information about Phillips’ state of mind and behavioral patterns. Police had documented his controlling nature, alcohol consumption, anti-vaccination beliefs, and statements suggesting he would hide the children to avoid government intervention or lockdowns. Phillips had expressed willingness to endanger the children’s wellbeing to prevent their mother from accessing them. Additionally, the children’s mother had reported to police that Phillips possessed multiple firearms stored in various locations, but investigators questioned her credibility due to an ongoing custody dispute and failed to adequately investigate her allegations.
A significant investigative gap occurred in 2023 when a woman near the family farm reported to police that a man matching Phillips’ description had approached her home. She observed children in his vehicle and noted his poor hygiene. Police dispatched a unit but subsequently diverted it to another incident and did not follow up on the location for ten days, representing a missed opportunity to locate the family.
The inquiry made nine recommendations focused on improving inter-agency communication, particularly regarding child safety, and ensuring that firearm safety concerns raised by former partners are promptly addressed. Government officials, including the minister for social development and police commissioner, acknowledged the findings and committed to implementing the recommendations. Oranga Tamariki stated it would strengthen its procedures in response to the report.
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