There's tension in Palmerston North as Mark Lundy prepares to leave prison

The twice convicted double murderer is being released on parole after more than two decades behind bars for the murder of his wife and daughter in the Manawatu city in 2000.

He's always maintained his innocence.

One of the conditions of his release is he isn't allowed to enter certain areas, including Manawatu.

Mayor Grant Smith says residents want Lundy to stay away.

He says the condition needs to remain because people don't forget.