Raymond, 51, and James Fleet, 25, were reported missing more than a week ago on Wednesday, August 9.
This morning, friends of James, a roofer in Rotorua, were visibly upset over their loss.
A small group was congregating at Mamaku's war memorial hall with more due to arrive as the day wore on.
The sun was shining in Mamaku this morning, ending days of wet and stormy weather in the rural town.
Two young men declined to pay tribute to their friend for the moment, saying it didn't feel right to talk about James before his family.
One of James' brothers was also at the gathering, but was not ready to speak with media, his friends said.
James was last seen on Monday August 7.
About 6.30pm a man knocked on the door of his grandmother's house, where he was living, and he went to the door.
It is understood he then left with the man, without his wallet, shoes and keys.
Raymond is understood to have gone missing around the same time.
Michiko Suzuki, Raymond's partner, had previously spoken of her fear for the father of her children.
She had been delaying their son's ninth birthday party in the hopes his dad would be back soon to celebrate.
Suzuki could not be reached for comment today.
Last night a family friend speaking to the Rotorua Daily Post said the discovery of the bodies was tragic, but at least it brought closure for the Fleet family.
The whole community had been affected by the tragedy, she said.
James' mother Bronwyn Fleet, who had previously described her son as a "gentle-natured boy", declined to comment this morning.
Mamaku Primary School principal Gary Veysi said the school's thoughts were with the Fleet family and friends "at this difficult time".
"Members of the school's crisis response team are supporting the school community and
we will be giving out information to the students and parents today.
Parents will be provided with information about reactions following a sudden death and how adults can help young people cope," he said.
They will also be provided with information about wellbeing.
