For the first time in nearly three years, Tom Phillips — who vanished with his three children in 2021 — has been confirmed sighted in New Zealand.

The sighting occurred in October, when a group of pig hunters captured video footage showing Phillips alongside his children: Ember (8), Maverick (9), and Jayda (11).

Authorities say this marks the first verified confirmation that the family has been seen since their disappearance.

Captured on Video in the Bush

According to information provided to police, the family was filmed in a remote rural area while pig hunters were moving through bushland.

The hunters later reported that Phillips appeared to be armed, prompting them to avoid any confrontation. Instead of approaching the group, they notified New Zealand authorities and provided the footage.

Officials have not released the video publicly but confirmed it is being treated as credible evidence.

Armed, But No Confrontation

The hunters’ decision to withdraw was based on safety concerns, they said.

Rather than escalating the situation, they chose to alert authorities, allowing police to respond with appropriate resources.

Police have not confirmed the type of weapon Phillips was allegedly carrying.

Search Efforts Intensify

Following the report, authorities launched a search operation over the weekend.

Two helicopters were deployed to scour the area captured in the footage, focusing on surrounding bushland and potential routes the family may have taken.

Despite these efforts, officials confirmed that the search did not locate the family.

Still No Contact

Authorities emphasized that while the sighting is significant, it does not mean the family has been found or is safe.

No direct contact has been made with Phillips or the children.

Investigators continue to assess the footage, analyze terrain, and review possible movements since the video was taken.

A Case That Never Went Cold

Tom Phillips disappeared with his three children in 2021, triggering widespread concern and a prolonged missing persons investigation.

Over the years, authorities pursued multiple leads, but none resulted in confirmed sightings — until now.

The October footage has revived the case, shifting it back into active search mode.

Challenges of the Terrain

Officials note that New Zealand’s rugged bushland presents significant challenges for search operations.

Dense vegetation, limited access routes, and unpredictable movement patterns make locating individuals extremely difficult, even with aerial support.

What Happens Next

Authorities say they are continuing to review all available information, including the hunters’ testimony and video evidence.

Search strategies may be adjusted as investigators determine where the family could have moved since the sighting.

Officials urged the public to report any information but warned against attempting to approach Phillips directly.

A Break — But No Resolution

While the sighting represents a critical breakthrough, it has not yet brought closure.

For now, Tom Phillips and his children remain missing.

The search continues.