Public inquiry announced into disappearance of Phillips children

Thursday 27 November 2025 · 6 outlets · 7 reports · updated Thu 27 Nov 2025, 10:55am

In this story Judith Collins

The government will hold a public inquiry in 2026 regarding the disappearance of Tom Phillips' children. The investigation will examine whether government agencies took all practicable steps to protect the children's safety and welfare. Recommendations from the inquiry are expected in July next year.

How they headlined it

9:15am10:55am

1. 1NewsThu 27 Nov 2025, 9:15am

   Marokopa: Public inquiry to be held into disappearance of Phillips children (opens in new tab)

2. StuffThu 27 Nov 2025, 9:34am

   Government announces public inquiry into disappearance of Tom Phillips’ children (opens in new tab)

3. NZ HeraldThu 27 Nov 2025, 9:38am

   Inquiry into Phillips children’s disappearance announced: What will be investigated (opens in new tab)

4. The Press via The PostThu 27 Nov 2025, 9:41am

   Government announces narrow inquiry into Tom Phillips matter (opens in new tab)

5. Otago Daily TimesThu 27 Nov 2025, 9:46am

   'Significant public interest': Inquiry into handling of Phillips case (opens in new tab)

6. RNZThu 27 Nov 2025, 9:58am

   Inquiry into handling of the Tom Phillips case announced by government (opens in new tab)

   • Tom Phillips' family welcome government inquiry into case (opens in new tab) Thu 27 Nov 2025, 10:55am