New Zealand's Top Military Officer Resigns Over Relationship

Air Marshal Tony Davies resigned Friday as chief of the New Zealand Defence Force. He cited an inappropriate relationship he had while in a unit command role.

• 1984: the year Davies joined New Zealand's military.
• 2024: the year Davies became chief of the Defence Force.
• Davies notified Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith of his decision.
• Vice chief Mat Williams will serve as acting chief.

Why it matters: The resignation turns on disclosure, not only conduct. Davies said he regrets not disclosing the relationship when he had the opportunity.

• Davies said his errors of judgment ran contrary to Defence Force values.
• Goldsmith said the reasons relate to integrity matters not previously disclosed.

How 3 sources split on this story

What’s next: Goldsmith said he will recommend that the governor-general accept Davies' resignation.

• Mat Williams leads the Defence Force in an acting role.
• When and with whom did the relationship occur, and did it break specific rules?
• When did Davies have the opportunity to disclose it, and who asked?
• Who will the government name as permanent chief?