Police officer shot by Tom Phillips returns to work

The officer who was shot in the head by Tom Phillips is returning to work.

The officer, who has not been named, was critically injured when Phillips shot him several times last September.

Phillips died shortly after a shootout with another officer, when police were called to reports of a burglary in the early hours of 8 September 2025, after 1358 days in the bush with his children.

It is understood the officer who was shot underwent numerous surgeries at Waikato Hospital, after being hit in his skull and his right shoulder.

Waikato District Commander Scott Gemmell said he had made positive progress in his recovery and was continuing rehabilitation.

He said the officer was returning to work on a light duties' basis as part of their reintegration programme.