Mr McFarlane's mother Ann Rowe, supported by his stepfather and biological father, told the Otago Daily Times ''we can move on now''.
''We were thinking it would be a lesser sentence . . . we are rapt.''
Kim Julius, Mr McFarlane's sister, when asked if she felt it was a just sentence replied, ''Absolutely''.
The family is quite thrilled with the result.
''Life of 17 and 18 years before they are eligible for parole is fantastic.''
Several members in the packed public gallery clapped as the sentences were handed down, while words were exchanged as the men were led away from the dock.
She said the whole trial had been horrific.
''We are a fairly strong family, a very close family, and he is sadly missed.
''He has three boys and they are going to grow up without knowing their dad, as well as we knew him, and that is really sad.''
Mrs Julius said she hoped no-one had to experience what her family had gone through, as ''it is a horrible, horrible thing you have to go to''.
She confirmed family had been approached to speak to the prisoners.
''They didn't plead guilty, they showed no remorse, they laughed and joked throughout the trial . . . they don't deserve anything from us.''
Her husband Brent thanked police and the prosecutors while Victim Support ''has been amazing and helped the family cope a little bit better''.
