The scene examination of the camping areas believed to have been used by Tom Phillips and his children is nearing completion today.
The investigation team is continuing to work at pace with poor weather forecast for the next few days. They are working through areas of dense bush and difficult terrain where the sites were located.
Waikato Acting District Commander Andrea McBeth says while the scene examination is wrapping up, this phase of investigation work remains in its early stages.
"We have a dedicated team working meticulously to examine the items that Police have collected from the sites. These items will be critical into determining who exactly has been helping Tom.
"The campsites will be dismantled following the conclusion of the scene examination and the key items will be secured as evidence."
Cordons remain in place on Te Anga Road, however these are expected to be stood down for the road to re-open later today.
"We want to again thank the communities who have been impacted by this major operation throughout the week. Locals have been cooperative throughout a week of major disruption as we have worked through the areas of interest.
"Extra staff who were brought into the Marokopa and King Country remain in the district and are on hand to provide assistance with reassurance for the community.
"The events of this week are unprecedented, and we understand there has been a lot of angst amongst the community, and the investigation team is committed to leaving no stone unturned as enquiries continue," says Acting District Commander McBeth.
A number of investigations remain ongoing including the critical incident investigation, and as such, Police are unable to comment on specific details of the investigation.
"Our injured officer continues to recover in hospital, and I want to take this opportunity to thank members of the community for the huge outpouring of support for him and all our staff.
"All our officers involved in the event have asked for privacy and as such, we ask media to desist with visits to our officers' homes."
