This guide serves as a comprehensive reference work designed to catalog and identify the diverse marine fish species found within the coastal and offshore waters of New Zealand. Tony Ayling, a marine biologist, synthesizes existing ichthyological research into an accessible format for both amateur naturalists and professional researchers. The text utilizes a structured taxonomic approach, supported by extensive visual documentation, to provide a reliable identification framework for regional marine life.

The work is regarded as a foundational reference for regional marine biology, noted for its balance between technical accuracy and accessibility for the general public. Its systematic organization and extensive illustrative content make it a standard resource for those studying the biodiversity of New Zealand waters.