Authorities Warn Against Trespassing at Phillips’ Hideouts

The New Zealand Police have issued a warning to the public against trespassing on private property where **Phillips** lived in hiding for nearly four years. Investigators state that entering these areas without permission constitutes trespassing. Although cordons on **Te Anga Road** have been lifted, authorities are urging both the media and the public to refrain from visiting the sites, which remain active crime scenes as evidence is still being collected.

On **October 16, 2023**, a confrontation in **Piopio** resulted in Phillips fatally shooting a police officer and subsequently being killed by law enforcement. During the encounter, Phillips opened fire after his quad bike was spiked, injuring the officer in the head and shoulder. The injured constable is currently receiving treatment at **Waikato Hospital**.

In the aftermath of the incident, one of Phillips’ children was detained at the shooting scene, while two others were found unharmed later that day in dense bush nearby. The children are now under the care of **Oranga Tamariki**, New Zealand’s Ministry for Children.

Discovery of Makeshift Camps

Following the shooting, police uncovered multiple makeshift camps that the family had used for shelter. Recovered items included quad and trail bikes, tarpaulins, oil containers, tools, and even a toilet bowl. Photographs reveal tents camouflaged with netting and vegetation, indicating a prolonged period of living off the grid.

Detective Senior Sergeant **Andrew Saunders** noted that the evidence suggests Phillips may have received assistance from others during his time in hiding. This revelation raises questions about the extent of support he garnered while evading authorities.

As investigations continue, police are focused on gathering more evidence and understanding the full scope of Phillips’ activities. The community has been urged to respect the boundaries of the investigation and avoid entering the crime scenes, reinforcing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the evidence collection process.