Chief of Defence Force resigns over inappropriate relationship

Air Marshal Tony Davies has resigned as Chief of Defence Force effective immediately. He admitted to an inappropriate relationship while in a position of unit command which he failed to disclose when he had the opportunity. Davies stated his resignation resulted from errors of judgement that were contrary to the values of the Defence Force.

Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith said the resignation relates to integrity matters and agreed that Davies' position was no longer tenable. Goldsmith will recommend that the Governor-General accepts the resignation. The Minister acknowledged Davies' 42 years of service but noted the circumstances would be a great disappointment to the Defence Force.

The matter has been referred to the Inspector-General of Defence. Major General Rose King, the Chief of Army, will act as Chief of Defence Force until Sunday. Following this, Vice Chief of Defence Force Rear Admiral Mat Williams will serve as Acting Chief of Defence Force.

Davies, who was appointed to the role in 2024, said his current focus is on his family and he requested privacy. He previously served as Vice Chief of Defence Force from 2018 and Chief of Air Force between 2016 and 2018.

Where reports differ

• Reports vary on the immediate acting leadership, with some stating Rear Admiral Mat Williams would take over immediately while others specify Major General Rose King will act until Sunday first

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, 1News, The Post, Stuff, Otago Daily Times and Newsroom.