Alliance Party Announces Sara Dyatlova–Murphy as Candidate for West Coast-Tasman

The Alliance Party has announced software developer, community advocate, and mother Sara Dyatlova–Murphy as its candidate for the West Coast-Tasman electorate in the 2026 General Election.

Born and raised in Nelson with personal and family roots in Golden Bay, Motueka, Riwaka, and the West Coast, Ms Dyatlova–Murphy brings a rich blend of practical experience and grassroots organising.

Her background spans technology and software development alongside hands-on work in hospitality and seasonal fruit harvesting in local orchards.

Currently living in Riwaka as a stay-at-home mother, she understands the everyday pressures facing households across the region.

Her commitment to public advocacy is shaped by both local history and international perspective. Having experienced the harsh economic impact of the National Government’s 1991 “mother of all budgets” on households during her childhood, she later spent time living in Denmark, The Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Her time in Denmark demonstrated firsthand the high standard of security achieved through a well-funded social democracy.

Ms Dyatlova–Murphy says the West Coast-Tasman electorate is geographically large and diverse, but whether people live in Golden Bay, Motueka, or on ‘the Coast’, they all share common struggles.

“People across our region need access to timely healthcare, relief from cost-of-living pressures, affordable housing, and secure, well-paid jobs. As a mother, worker, and local resident, I am standing with the Alliance because I believe our communities deserve strong representation that fights for public ownership, workers’ rights, and a better future for our Tamariki.”

Ms Dyatlova–Murphy’s campaign will champion public services, disability rights, regional healthcare access, free education, public ownership of key assets, and economic security for regional workers.

Alliance Party Leader Victor Billot welcomed her candidacy.

“The Alliance is very happy to announce Sara Dyatlova–Murphy as the Alliance candidate for West Coast-Tasman,” he says.

“Sara brings real-world experience, deep roots across the region, and an unshakeable commitment to a better New Zealand. At a time when working families are bearing the brunt of economic pressure, Sara offers the practical, compassionate leadership we need.”

The Alliance Party extends its gratitude to previous candidate Louis Coup, who has stepped down from the race due to unavailability.

For more information contact Alliance Party Leader Victor Billot on 022 479 1786.