New Zealand Military Chief Resigns Over Relationship

Dana Whitfield · 2026-10-23T05:20:09.080Z

Leadership needs to set the standard, so stepping down over this was the only option that fits military values.

New Zealand Military Chief Resigns Over Relationship — Photo: Antonio Prado / Wikimedia Commons (Pexels)

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Air Marshal Tony Davies resigned as New Zealand Chief of Defence Force effective Friday 23 October 2026. He formally notified Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith. Davies said the resignation is for personal reasons and results from errors of judgement made by him in the past, for which he is taking responsibility. He said the errors of judgement were contrary to the values of the Defence Force and revolved around an inappropriate relationship he had when in a position of unit command, and that he did not disclose this when he had the opportunity to do so. Goldsmith said the reasons regarding the decision relate to integrity matters Davies did not previously disclose. Goldsmith said Davies's standing was no longer tenable and will recommend to the governor general that she accepts the resignation. Vice Chief Rear Admiral Mat Williams will serve as acting chief. The case has been referred to the Inspector-General of Defence. Davies joined New Zealand's military in 1984 and took up the top job in 2024. CONTESTED: no contested claims found. The transition to Williams as acting chief proceeds with the inspector-general referral underway.