Here’s a wild story that’s been buzzing across New Zealand. A dad disappeared into the wilderness with his three kids for years—and they’ve just been spotted for the first time!
According to BBC on Friday (11/10/2024), the father, Tom Phillips, and his kids—Ember (8), Maverick (9), and Jayda (11)—vanished into the dense New Zealand bush about three years ago. The reason? A fight with their mom. Since then, they’ve been living off the grid, like a real-life survival TV show but with way higher stakes.
The drama started in December 2021, when Tom scooped up the kids and took off from the family home. A massive national search was launched, but the dude was practically invisible. The authorities figured he was camping out somewhere in North Island, Waikato—hiding deep in the bush, avoiding all contact with the outside world.
But it wasn’t until a group of teenage boar hunters randomly stumbled upon them in the woods that the authorities got their first break. These teens managed to capture the encounter on their phones—talk about being at the right place at the right time!
Caught on Camera
The hunters described a pretty wild scene: Tom, looking like a true wilderness survivor with a long beard and carrying a gun, was out there with his kids. The kids? Masked up and each carrying their own bags like mini survivalists. It’s almost like something out of a post-apocalyptic movie.
The teens asked the kids if anyone knew they were out there—probably just as shocked as everyone else. Afterward, they turned the footage over to the police.
New Zealand authorities confirmed the sighting was legit, calling it “credible” and saying it’s finally some good news for the worried family members who’d been holding onto hope.
It’s worth noting that while there had been scattered reports of Tom Phillips sightings in the past, this was the first time anyone had laid eyes on him with the kids in tow since they vanished.
A 3-Day Search and What the Mom Had to Say
Once the video came to light, a three-day search kicked off, complete with police helicopters and military personnel combing through the Marokopa bush area, where they were last seen. In the footage, Tom is seen guiding his kids through some pretty gnarly terrain.
Their mom, Cat, was relieved to see that her children were still alive and even seemed healthy enough to carry their own gear.
She also had some harsh words for the people she believes are helping Tom stay hidden, urging them to stop and come clean to the authorities.
Back in June, authorities offered a cash reward for info that could bring the kids back safely. But no one claimed it, and the offer has since expired.
No School, No Contact for 3 Years
Shockingly, in these three years, the kids haven’t been in touch with anyone from the outside world. They’ve missed out on formal education, growing up completely cut off from society.
“We believe that Tom and the children have been receiving help,” said Detective Saunders.
Police suspect he had help during the heist, and they’ve warned people to steer clear of him because he’s likely armed.