New Zealand Military Chief Resigns Over Inappropriate Relationship
Air Marshal Tony Davies cited errors in judgment and a failure to disclose a relationship while in a command position.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand — New Zealand's military chief, Air Marshal Tony Davies, resigned Friday after admitting to an inappropriate relationship while serving in a leadership role. Davies stated, “I regret not disclosing this when I had the opportunity to do so,” without providing further details about the circumstances or timing of the relationship.
Davies, who joined the Air Force in 1984, assumed the role of chief of the New Zealand Defence Force in 2024. The military confirmed that its vice chief, Rear Admiral Mat Williams, will assume leadership responsibilities during the transition. In his statement, Davies described the decision as being for “personal reasons” and stemming from “errors of judgement made by me in the past, for which I am taking responsibility." He acknowledged that these errors were "contrary to the values of the Defence Force."
The Defence Force has stated it will not offer further comment on the matter, which has been referred to an independent inspector-general responsible for investigating military conduct.
Defense Minister Paul Goldsmith confirmed he had accepted the resignation, describing the situation as an "integrity matter" and agreeing that Davies's position was no longer tenable. Goldsmith acknowledged Davies's 42 years of service and contributions to the Defence Force but noted that the circumstances of his departure would likely be a significant disappointment to military personnel.
According to the New Zealand military's website, Davies is an alumnus of the U.S. Air Force Air Command and Staff Course and the Royal College of Defence Studies. He was recognized in 1998 as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his involvement in the midwinter evacuation of an American citizen from Antarctica.