Matthew Wright is one of New Zealand's most published historians, with his work receiving both academic and popular recognition. He has written over 50 books, including a significant general history of New Zealand, a major biography of Donald McLean, and books on the New Zealand Wars, the evolution of New Zealand society, and the social impact of the First World War. His most recent book, Waitangi: A Living Treaty was published in 2019. He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society at University College, London.