[2] The prize honours the legacy of Frank Sargeson, one of New Zealand's most prolific and notable short-story writers.

[3] Along with publishing over forty short stories, plays and novels, Sargeson is noted for his support of emerging New Zealand authors.

[7][8] Sargeson took up a role as mentor to many authors who later became leading figures in New Zealand's literary scene, including the likes of Janet Frame, Maurice Duggan and John Reece Cole.

[3][9] Within his own stories, Sargeson was celebrated for capturing a constrained, working-class voice of New Zealand culture that had not been heard in short fiction up to that point.

[11] The open division takes submissions from New Zealand citizens (including those who may be based abroad) and permanent residents aged 16 and over.