Records of results of experiments using towed echosounders to assess quantities of fish of particular species in particular locations. Sampling frequency: variable. Sample data cover 1996 to 2011. Number of sites: variable. Lat/Long provided for all data. Extent of site: entire EEZ (and sometimes beyond). Areas from which these data have been collected include the Chatham Rise, the Campbell Plateau, the west coast of the South Island, Cook Strait and various inshore regions around New Zealand. Depths sampled: 0-3000 m. Measured variables: The acoustic database contains data collected from acoustic surveys starting in 1984 through to the present day. Species on which acoustic data have been collected include hoki, hake, smooth and black oreos, orange roughy, and southern blue whiting. Areas from which these data have been collected include the Chatham Rise, the Campbell Plateau, the west coast of the South Island, Cook Strait and various inshore regions around New Zealand. The data are used primarily to estimate the biomass of fish species for the Ministry for Primary Industries. Aside from the acoustic data, this database also stores various ancillary data that provide context to the acoustic data. This includes such data as vessel position, speed, and direction of travel. Details on the echosounder equipment and software settings are also stored, as are the results of any equipment calibrations. Sampling protocol & Q: towed echosounders.