New images released by New Zealand police on October 24, 2025, expose the clandestine bush camps where fugitive father Tom Phillips concealed himself and his three children for almost four years, shedding light on their rugged hideouts and the extensive manhunt that ended in his death.
The photos, made public by authorities, depict two heavily concealed campsites located in dense wilderness north and east of Marokopa on New Zealand’s western coast. These semi-permanent structures, built from logs, foliage, and tarpaulins, were expertly camouflaged to blend into the surrounding bush, making them nearly impossible to detect by chance. Police described the sites as ‘established’ and ‘heavily concealed,’ emphasizing the challenges faced during the search operations. The release aims to provide insight into how Phillips managed to evade capture for such an extended period.
One camp featured a wooden hut with a thatched straw roof, partially exposed to the elements, while the interior showed a muddy floor with essential items like a plastic bucket and jerry cans. The other site, captured in aerial shots, appeared as a small speck under the tree canopy, with a more substantial structure housing a log table, bags, and a helmet hanging from rafters covered by a tarpaulin. Authorities noted that approaching these locations would have been extremely dangerous due to Phillips’ known possession of firearms and his willingness to use them.
Tom Phillips, a local farmer from Marokopa, first disappeared with his children in December 2021 amid a bitter family dispute, initially facing charges for wasting police resources. Over time, his legal troubles escalated, including allegations of bank robbery in May 2023, which intensified the nationwide manhunt. The case captivated New Zealand, with police deploying helicopters, planes, and specialized units like the Armed Offenders Squad in repeated attempts to locate the family.
The prolonged evasion ended tragically on September 8, 2025, when police confronted Phillips on a rural road after reports of a burglary. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, Phillips shot and critically injured an officer before being fatally shot by police. His eldest daughter, Jayda, aged 12, was with him at the time and later guided authorities to a campsite where her two younger siblings, aged 9 and 11, were found hiding unharmed.
Following the shootout, police have been conducting forensic examinations of items recovered from the camps, including clothing, tools, and survival gear, to identify any accomplices who may have assisted Phillips. Detective Superintendent Ross McKay stated that investigators believe a small number of people helped him at different stages over the four years, and charges could be filed against those involved.
The children, now in the care of child services, are reportedly safe and receiving support, though the ordeal has left deep emotional scars. Police have emphasized that their primary concern throughout was the welfare of the children, and the recovery operation was carefully planned to minimize risk to them.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, highlighting the community’s role in resolving such cases. The release of the photos not only provides closure but also serves as a cautionary tale about the lengths to which individuals might go to avoid justice. This case has sparked discussions in New Zealand about parental custody disputes, mental health, and law enforcement strategies in remote areas. Moving forward, police are focused on ensuring the children’s well-being and bringing any collaborators to justice, while also reviewing procedures to prevent similar incidents.