Police are today continuing the scene examination of the campsites believed to have been used by Tom Phillips and his children.
Detective Inspector Daryl Smith says the investigation team has worked tirelessly in difficult conditions to examine multiple scenes since the critical incident on Monday morning.
"Police staff have spent the last three days canvassing the area, traversing some extremely difficult terrain, in dense bush.
"An examination of the located sites is continuing today and is expected to be completed tomorrow.
A postmortem was carried out on Phillips yesterday, his body has been released to his family.
"A scene guard will remain in place overnight, as well as cordons along Te Anga Road. These cordons will be placed to ensure access to the local school tomorrow.
"I want to acknowledge and thank the locals for their patience and understanding throughout this period of disruption for them, especially the school for their cooperation this week.
"Extra Police staff deployed to the Marokopa and King Country areas remain in the district. Residents can expect to see an increased visible Police presence while reassurance patrols are carried out," says Detective Inspector Smith.
The officer injured on Monday remains in Waikato Hospital. Both the officer and his family are being provided ongoing support.
A number of investigations remain ongoing, including a critical incident investigation. The death of Phillips has been referred to the Coroner.
On behalf of the family, Police would like to remind media that the family has requested privacy at this time.
