The bodies of Israeli travelers Ofer Levy and Gabi Ingel, who went missing during last week’s devastating earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, were discovered Monday night (Israel time) by local search teams.

The Foreign Ministry confirmed the report, saying the victims’ families have been notified.

Rehovot residents Levy and Ingel, both 22 years old, arrived in New Zealand in December and were meant to begin working at a vineyard located in close proximity to where the earthquake hit. The tremor also claimed the life of 23-year-old Ofer Mizrahi from Kibbutz Magal.

Ofer’s uncle Yaakov Levy said he hopes the bodies will be returned to Israel for burial as soon as possible.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that aid is on its way to Christchurch – despite New Zealand’s polite refusal of Israel’s initial offer for help.

(Source: Ynet)