Eyes and ears are expected to open even wider across Waikato after the latest development in the search for Marokopa man Tom Phillips

He's been missing with his three children since December 2021.

Police have issued a warrant for his arrest, after charging him with aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding and unlawfully possessing a firearm.

In May, two armed people entered a Te Kuiti bank demanding cash before fleeing on a farm-style motorbike -- the other person hasn't been identified.

Otorohanga Mayor Max Baxter says in light of these allegations, he imagines the community will be even more alert and vigilant.

Police are due to provide more information at a news conference in Hamilton later this morning.