Updated 5.30pm: Scott Guy's father said he always knew this day would come.

The Parole Board has granted parole to Ewen Macdonald, the man who was found not guilty of Scott Guy's murder.

Macdonald will walk free from jail next month, after serving time for a string of charges including arson, intentional damage and the theft of animals.

Bryan Guy said while the decision hasn't come as a surprise, it's still not easy.

"Its been a little bit difficult for the family building up to this, you tend to put it in the back of your mind and not want to think about it."

Bryan Guy said he's focusing on the future, and is enjoying the company of his grandchildren.

He said he wants to just get on with life. 

The Parole Board is satisfied Macdonald no longer poses an undue risk to the community.

Macdonald was married to Scott Guy's sister Anna and the pair have four children together.

Scott and Anna's father Bryan Guy said the children had contact with Macdonald in prison and that would likely continue.

He said those arrangements will be worked out, but he doesn't plan to have any contact with Macdonald.

"Our hope is for the grandchildren, and we want to instill in them good values of honesty and integrity and treating others as they want to be treated."

Macdonald will walk free from jail next month, on the condition he stays in the South Island, and has no access to firearms.