This prize arises from a fund by the Round Table groups in New Zealand (including members of the groups, readers of the Round Table Magazine, and friends), in memory of Captain Samuel Arnold Atkinson, BA. Captain Atkinson was the Dominion Secretary in New Zealand of the Round Table organisation, and fell on the field of battle in France in June 1917. The prize was originally awarded by the University of New Zealand.

No candidate may receive the prize more than once.

The prize is awarded on the recommendation of the Head of the School of History, Philosophy, Political Science and International Relations.

The value of the prize is be determined after consideration of the income from the fund. The balance of income not expended shall be added to the fund.

The recipient will be asked to write a letter of thanks, which will be forwarded appropriately.

$500 (subject to available funds)

No application required

This prize is awarded to an undergraduate student who, in the year of the award, has completed an essay on an aspect of British or European history, or the history of former British colonies, and who is judged to be the best student of the year.