The detective spearheading the search for Tom Phillips believes the fugitive's motive is because he no longer has custody of his children

Phillips sparked a search operation after disappearing near Marokopa with his children Jayda, Maverick, and Ember, three years ago.

The four were spotted at the start of the month wearing camo gear with walking pack - sparking international interest.

Acting Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders believes Phillips is on the run purely to keep his kids.

He says Oranga Tamariki now has legal custody, and have arrangements for the trio when they're found.