Man and three children missing AGAIN after vanishing 3 months ago
A man and his three children who vanished in New Zealand earlier in the year — sparking a multi-day search — are now missing again.
Thomas Phillips initially disappeared in September with his children, eight-year-old Jayda Jin, six-year-old Maverick and five-year-old Ember for 17 days, launching an intensive search by authorities before returning home after many days in the bush.
Despite again not being heard from for several days, police have said they won't be initiating another search, but would continue to monitor the situation.
The 34-year-old was charged with “causing wasteful deployment of police personnel and resources" after they returned home in September.
They reappeared at an extended family member's home five days after authorities called off the search.
No search initiated yet by police
A Facebook post from Waikato Police said they know of posts online surrounding Thomas Phillips and his children.
"We are aware Thomas and the children are not currently at the family home and will continue to monitor and regularly reassess the situation," the update read.
"We are making initial enquiries and no search has been initiated.
"Police won’t be making further comment at this stage."
A spokesperson told Newshub they were working with the wider Phillips family.
Missing in September
The Phillips family was last spotted on September 11 at Marokopa on the island's west coast.
A search and rescue mission was initiated after Mr Phillips' car was left parked on Kiritehere beach in Waikato West after some rough weather.
After searching for 12 days, police suspended the operation after failing to locate the four family members.
Five days later, the family walked through the front door of Mr Phillips' parents' home in Marokopa.
On September 30, Waikato West Area Commander Inspector Will Loughrin said the family had been living in a tent in a dense bush area.
According to Insp Loughrin, Mr Phillips was an experienced camper and was able to look after himself.
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