Chief of Defence Force Tony Davies resigns after ‘errors of judgement’, having ‘inappropriate relationship’
New Zealand's Chief of Defence Force, Air Marshal Tony Davies, has resigned following the admission of an inappropriate relationship during his time in command. The government has accepted his resignation, and an acting replacement has been appointed.
Why it matters
The resignation of a top military official due to ethical lapses impacts national security leadership and public trust in defense institutions.
Defence Force Chief Air Marshal Tony Davies. Photo / Mark Mitchell
The Chief of Defence Force has resigned after admitting he was in an inappropriate relationship while holding a position of command, which he didn’t disclose when he had the opportunity.
In a statement issued on Friday afternoon, Air Marshal Tony Davies said: “The resignation is for personal reasons, and results from errors of judgment made by me in the past, for which I am taking responsibility.
“The errors of judgment were contrary to the values of the Defence Force. These matters revolved around an inappropriate relationship I had when in a position of unit command, and I regret not disclosing this when I had the opportunity to do so.”
He has informed Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith he is resigning his role and his focus is now on family, Davies said.
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