Minister Upston Releases Public Inquiry into the Disappearance of the Phillips Children

The Inquiry was asked to examine whether government agencies took all practicable steps to protect the safety and welfare of the Phillips children. Including measures to prevent their disappearance, and whether agencies responded appropriately and in a timely manner to locate the children following their disappearance.

The Inquiry also examined whether agencies engaged appropriately with the Family Court, as well as how Tom Phillips obtained and maintained a firearms licence and access to firearms and ammunition.

Follow the link below to access the Inquiry Report, the Government Response and associated media statements: https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/newsroom/2026/government-response-disappearance-of-the-phillips-children.html