The man who organised today's paddle out, Brett Morrison, said he was initially hopeful of getting "about 20 or 30 people" to come along but word quickly spread via Facebook and dozens showed up.
"It's something that surfers do, you just go out and pay your respects to that person and the sea. The sea can be a beautiful place but it can also be deadly."
"We just really hope that the sea gives him back to us. These are tough times but it's what brings the best out in people."
Mr Morrison said surf lifesavers were tireless in their search for the young boy as had a number of locals who were "out there doing their bit and trying to find little Jack".
"You can see people on jetskis out there and people on their boats all doing their bit to help, it's pretty moving."
Leigh Sefton, lifesaving education manager surf lifesaving eastern region, said the search for Jack would continue but like the police search had been scaled back.
He said beach patrols would continue in the mornings and crews would be scanning "about two thirds of Matakana Island" for any sign of his body.
"We are now waiting for the sea to send Jack home," he said.
In a statement today, Jack's parents Karen Spargo and Wayne Dixon said they had not given up hope of finding their son.
"We're so grateful for the surf lifesavers, the search and rescue personnel, the police and all the members of the public who continue to look for him.
"We're also overwhelmed by the response from our local community, from New Zealanders and people around the world.
"Your warmth and caring has helped give us strength."
They acknowledged people who had brought in food, donated online or in person and who continued to be vigilant.
"Please know we appreciate it and accept our deepest thanks."
Mount Maunganui surf lifesavers continue their search for Jack Dixon.
