The family of Feilding farmer Ewen Macdonald, acquitted this week of murdering his brother-in-law Scott Guy, has issued a statement saying they have "his truth" following the verdict.
Macdonald, 32, was found not guilty of murdering Scott Guy on Tuesday, following a month-long trial at the High Court in Wellington.
Mr Guy, 31, was shot in the driveway of the Feilding dairy farm in July, 2010.
On Thursday Macdonald's parents, Kerry and Marlene Macdonald, in a statement, spoke of their love for their son and said Tuesday's verdict was correct.
When Macdonald was arrested and charged in April last year, the family said the truth was keenly sought by all.
"After talking to Ewen at every prison visit possible and hundreds of phone conversations we are no longer `confused and bewildered' but rather totally at peace with the knowledge that we at least have his truth," they said.
"The trial has been brutal for many especially Kylee and the Guy family.
"Ewen knows he is responsible for that as well as the physical crimes he committed.
"Ewen has no words big enough to express his remorse or apologies."
Macdonald denied the murder but did admit theft, arson and criminal damage charges after attacks on the Guys' property. He is yet to be sentenced on those charges and others.
The Macdonalds asked everyone to remember the death of Mr Guy and said they would continue to give their unconditional love and support to the Guy family.
Macdonald was married to Mr Guy's sister Anna and the couple, now reported to be separated, have four children.
"We as a family have had enormous love and support from family, friends and colleagues which has given us the strength to get through the last months and these last four weeks."
The Macdonalds also thanked the staff at Manawatu Prison, where Macdonald is being held, for their "dignity and great compassion" shown to the family, including Ewen.
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