Boy swept out to sea named

Jack Dixon. Photo NZ Police
Jack Dixon. Photo NZ Police
Police have released the name of the little boy swept into the ocean at Mt Maunganui yesterday.

The search is continuing today for Jack Dixon, who turned five last month.

His parents Wayne Dixon and Karen Spargo issued a release through the police paying tribute to Jack, who had a fondness for bikes, Lego and rugby.

"We are shocked, upset, and lost at what has happened," the statement said.

"We want to thank police, lifeguards, and everyone who has done so much for us. We know there is so much community support, and we're truly touched.

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

This is the only statement Jack's family wish to make at this stage.

They have requested privacy.

About 40 Land Search and Rescue, police and divers are scouring the rough sea at Shelly Beach where Jack was playing with extended family when a large wave dragged him and two cousins into the water.

Just before noon yesterday, the boy was playing with two cousins, sisters aged 12 and 14, on the water's edge at Shelly Beach at the base of the Mount when the three of them were swept into the sea by a big wave.

The sisters scrambled on to rocks and were dragged ashore by two female relatives. Jack, who could not swim, disappeared.

Area Commander Inspector Karl Wright-St Clair told TV3's Firstline this morning the two girls had been discharged from hospital and the family were being supported by police and Victim Support.

"The family are struggling to come to terms with the situation they find themselves in."

The conditions at the beach were calmer today, which will assist the search, he said.

Mr Wright-St Clair said yesterday it was a "freakish accident". Jack was one of six children at the beach being supervised by two female relatives who were "close by".

"It's certainly no one's fault. On this occasion, the family did everything they could at the time."

The group had walked around the Mount base track before going to play on the beach together.

As police, search and rescue volunteers, members of the Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service, the rescue helicopter and Coastguard searched for Jack, his family gathered at the surf club.

His distraught mother was comforted by two other women as she arrived, saying her son did not know how to swim.

Said Mr Wright-St Clair: "We have told the family we are doing everything we can. Obviously the family are devastated. They are a local family with a lot of support from family members and they are being supported by Victim Support and police."


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