New Zealand military chief resigns over 'inappropriate relationship'

New Zealand Defence Force chief Air Marshal Tony Davies resigned on Friday after acknowledging that he failed to disclose an inappropriate relationship while serving in a unit command position. Davies informed Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith of his decision, taking responsibility for past errors of judgement that he said were contrary to the military's values. In a statement issued by the New Zealand Defence Force, Davies said his resignation was for personal reasons and stemmed from decisions he regretted. 'The resignation is for personal reasons, and results from errors of judgement made by me in the past, for which I am taking responsibility,' he said. Davies acknowledged that the matter involved an inappropriate relationship during his time in a unit command role. He expressed regret for failing to disclose it when he had the opportunity. He did not provide further details about the circumstances of the relationship or when it occurred. The Defence Force said it would not comment further on the matter. Defence minister says Davies' position no longer tenable Goldsmith said he agreed that Davies' position had become 'no longer tenable' because of integrity-related matters that had not previously been disclosed. The defence minister said he would recommend to the Governor-General that she accept Davies' resignation, formally setting the process in motion. The matter has also been referred to an independent inspector-general, who investigates military conduct. Vice chief to take over temporarily Following Davies' resignation, Vice Chief of the Defence Force Rear Admiral Mat Williams will serve as acting chief while the military transitions its leadership. Davies joined New Zealand's military in 1984 and spent four decades in service before being appointed chief of the New Zealand Defence Force in 2024. His departure brings an end to his tenure as the country's top military commander amid questions over the undisclosed relationship and the integrity standards expected of senior military leaders.