The partner of a New Zealander detained in Russia with 29 other Greenpeace activists says their potential move to St Petersburg gives her hope.
The members of the group, including New Zealanders Jon Beauchamp and David Haussmann, have been charged with piracy and hooliganism by Russian authorities after a protest against oil exploration seven weeks ago.
Mr Beauchamp's partner Tania Purtle says she knows Russian officials are preparing to move him from Murmansk to St Petersburg, but she does not know why or when.
She says the shift to a bigger city will make it easier to advocate for his release, because there will be better access to lawyers and diplomatic staff.
Ms Purtle says the activists will also experience daylight in St Petersburg, whereas Murmansk will have 24 hour darkness throughout winter.
