Fight against Marlborough salmon farms

An environmental group has plenty of confidence today heading to court to fight against new salmon farms being built in the Marlborough Sounds.

The Environmental Defence Society is appealing the approval of two marine farms run by NZ King Salmon, while the Save our Sounds group has lodged appeals against four of the farms.

In February, the Environmental Protection Authority gave NZ King Salmon approval to build four farms.

Society chair Gary Taylor said they are sure their arguments are strong.

"We've had a good look at the law and the decision and taken independent advice and are proceeding with some confidence that we've got a good case.

"Otherwise we wouldn't be there."

Mr Taylor said they are appealing on the grounds that the salmon farms breach policies which states activities can't happen in areas of the coastal environment with outstanding natural character or landscape values.