Search and rescue teams are not giving up hope on finding five-year-old Jack Dixon as they head into day three of the search for the missing boy.

Jack went missing on Wednesday when a large wave swept him and two girls, sisters aged 12 and 14, out to sea as they played in an area in Mount Maunganui known as Shelly Beach.

Search and rescue teams will begin searching for Jack Dixon again this morning.

The two girls managed to get to a nearby rock before being helped to shore by two adults.

Sadly, Jack disappeared from view. He had just turned five last month.

Searchers have been scouring the shoreline and divers have been in the water, along with surf lifeguards, looking for Jack since he went missing about 11.50am on Wednesday.

The Police National Dive Squad has also been called in to help with the search.

Yesterday, Jack's parents Wayne Dixon and Karen Spargo released a statement describing their shock at what has happened.

'We are shocked, upset and lost at what has happened. We want to thank police, lifeguards and everyone who have done so much for us.

'Jack will be missed by everyone who knew him. We just want him to come home.”

Unfortunately Jack has still not been located and a further search will be carried out today.

'We have had amazing support from LandSAR and Surf Life Saving personnel,” says Inspector Karl Wright-St Clair.

'The conditions have been tough and people are getting tired but they remain determined and motivated.

'We are continually reviewing and re-assessing the search options.”

Karl says the weather, tides and sea conditions have a large say in what can be done at any given time.

'Jack's family have said that they just want him home and we will do everything we can to return Jack to his family.”