New Zealand / Waikato

Police monitoring situation regarding Waikato family who went missing

15:39 pm on 20 December 2021

Police say they are aware that a family who went missing for 17 days in south Waikato earlier this year has not been seen for some days.

Thomas Phillips and his three children went missing for 17 days earlier this year before turning up unharmed. Photo: Supplied / Police

In September, an extensive search was launched by police for Thomas Phillips, 34, and three of his children after his family alerted authorities that they were missing. After 17 days, the missing family walked back into the family home, safe and well.

In a statement, police said they were aware of the situation and were working with the wider Phillips family.

"We are aware Thomas and the children are not currently at the family home and will continue to monitor and regularly reassess the situation.

"We are making initial enquiries and no search has been initiated."

Police said they would not be commenting further as it was a family court related matter.

Following September's incident, Thomas Phillips was charged with causing wasteful deployment of police personnel and resources.

He is due to appear in the Te Kūiti District Court on 12 January.