Police have confirmed that the group sighted on State Highway 4 around 8:30 am on Sunday, February 16, was not missing man Tom Phillips and his three children.
After receiving the initial report, officers conducted extensive searches in the area but were unable to locate the group.
Following a public appeal for information, police received multiple calls, including from an individual who was part of the group in question, confirming that the sighting was a case of mistaken identity.
Police appreciate the cooperation of the public and thank those who provided information.
The search for Maverick, Ember, Jayda, and Tom Phillips remains active, said police.
Saw them on Chatham Island yesterday.
They’re camping out with Lord Lucan.