Government Launches Inquiry into Handling of Tom Phillips Case

The government has initiated an inquiry into the handling of the case involving Tom Phillips, who died following a shootout with police on September 8, 2021. This incident occurred after authorities responded to reports of a burglary, during which Phillips shot a police officer multiple times. The situation escalated after Phillips had spent 1,358 days in the bush with his children, raising questions about their welfare and safety.

On Thursday, Attorney-General Judith Collins announced that the public inquiry would specifically address the actions of government agencies regarding the welfare of the Phillips children. Collins emphasized the inquiry’s significance by stating, “The decision to establish a public inquiry reflects the significant public interest and concern for the children’s welfare over the almost four years they were missing.”

The inquiry aims to determine if all necessary steps were taken to ensure the safety of the children. The terms of reference for the inquiry have been crafted with the children’s privacy and welfare in mind, leading to a decision that the proceedings will be conducted privately without public hearings. Collins added that the inquiry would respect the independence of the judiciary and refrain from commenting on judicial decisions.

Honourable Justice Simon Moore, KC, has been appointed as the sole member of this inquiry, which is expected to deliver a final report containing recommendations by July 21, 2026. An injunction remains in effect, preventing the media from publishing certain details related to the investigation into Phillips.

Investigative Developments and Campsite Discovery

In related developments, police recently released images of what they believe to be the primary campsites used by the Phillips family. Investigators discovered two large and “heavily concealed structures” in the dense bush surrounding Marokopa. Detective Superintendent Ross McKay stated that the investigation indicated the family moved regularly between these sites, including makeshift camps near Te Anga Rd and other locations around Marokopa.

“Over the past few weeks, police have pieced together information to build a clearer picture of Phillips’ movements,” McKay noted. “What is now clear is that Phillips moved regularly from coast to farm to bush in a complex manner that meant he was unlikely to be stumbled across.”

Authorities reported that the new sites included semi-permanent structures, partially buried and concealed by large amounts of vegetation. Approaching Phillips under these circumstances posed significant danger, given his known possession of firearms and willingness to use them.

Investigators have removed numerous items from the campsites for forensic examination. McKay described this process as “a protracted and labour-intensive exercise,” which is crucial for identifying anyone who may have assisted Phillips during his time in hiding. He suggested that Phillips received help from a small group of individuals at various points over the last four years.

All campsites have been cleared, and police have opted not to disclose their specific locations due to ongoing investigations. McKay previously indicated that the vast area where Phillips kept the children is characterized by difficult, steep terrain, mostly obscured by dense bush.

Ongoing Efforts and Safety Concerns

Throughout the operation, police utilized specialist units, including the Special Tactics Group, Armed Offenders Squad, Search and Rescue teams, and Tactical Operations Group. Support from the New Zealand Defence Force was also instrumental in the search efforts.

“Police never ceased their efforts—thousands of hours were dedicated to the search,” McKay stated. He acknowledged that intelligence played a crucial role in shaping decisions and planning for potential outcomes. Based on Phillips’ previous actions and behavioral science analysis, authorities concluded that he was unlikely to surrender easily and was prepared to place the children in harm’s way.

“The primary objective throughout this operation was to locate and return the children safely,” McKay affirmed. The inquiry into the handling of the Phillips case not only reflects the serious nature of the situation but also underscores the community’s deep concern for the welfare of the children involved.