In a chilling update to New Zealand’s most haunting manhunt, police have released haunting photos of the makeshift campsite where fugitive Tom Phillips hid with his three young children for nearly four years. Discovered just 2 kilometers from the deadly shootout scene in Waitomo, the camp—unearthed thanks to crucial information from one of the terrified kids—paints a grim picture of survival in the wild that has left experts and the nation stunned.
The images show rudimentary shelters pieced together from branches, tarps, and scavenged materials, hidden deep in the rugged Waikato bush. This is where Jayda (12), Maverick (10), and Ember (9) endured freezing nights, foraging for food, and constant fear after their father snatched them in December 2021 amid a custody battle. The camp’s discovery followed Monday’s tragic 3:25am confrontation on Te Anga Road, where Phillips, 38, shot and critically injured a rural officer before being gunned down by police in a hail of bullets.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers visited the wounded “Officer A” in hospital today alongside Minister of Police Mark Mitchell. “He has a long road to recovery, but we’re with him every step,” Chambers said, praising the constable’s bravery and the rapid response of backup officers who “dealt to the threat.” Chambers also commended Acting Waikato District Commander Inspector Andrea McBeth and her team for their “admirable professionalism” amid the chaos.
Western Waikato remains locked down as forensic teams scour active crime scenes at the Waitomo camp and shooting site. Three firearms—including Phillips’ high-powered rifle—were recovered from the confrontation, with several more found at the campsite. “Further details will be shared soon,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers revealed. Multiple probes are underway: an Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation, coronial inquiries, and a Critical Incident Review. Phillips’ body was removed yesterday; a post-mortem is set for tomorrow before release to his family.
Investigators are canvassing farmers, locals, and workers to map Phillips’ elusive movements, piecing together how he sustained the children in isolation. Rogers noted the kids were “engaged and readily spoke” with police, who offered snacks and drinks as they waited to be extracted. Now in Oranga Tamariki care, the children—reunited late yesterday—are receiving sensitive support after their unimaginable ordeal. Extra police are patrolling Marokopa and King Country for days to come.
As photos of the camp circulate, questions swirl: How did they survive so long? What secrets do these images hold? The nation mourns a tragic end while hoping for the children’s healing.
