Tony Davies, head of the New Zealand Defence Force, has resigned after admitting to an inappropriate past relationship that he failed to disclose while in command. Davies announced his decision on Friday, 23 October 2026, accepting responsibility for errors in judgment which, in his words, were at odds with the values of the country’s armed forces.
The New Zealand Ministry of Defence described the situation as a matter of integrity and said that Davies’ continued leadership was no longer sustainable. The case has been referred to the Defence Force’s Inspector-General for further examination of the circumstances.
Davies accepts responsibility for mistake
In his statement, Davies said he was resigning for personal reasons. He acknowledged he had made errors in judgment in the past, taking full responsibility for them.
He explained that the matter involved an inappropriate relationship during his tenure in a command position, expressing regret that he did not disclose it when he had the chance.
Davies did not share details about the other individual or the specific nature of the relationship. As a result, it is unclear exactly which rules or duties may have been violated.
The New Zealand Defence Force confirmed the Inspector-General was handling the case but did not provide further details.
Defence Minister: a question of integrity
Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith confirmed he had received Davies’ letter of resignation and agreed that, under the circumstances, his continued leadership was unsustainable.
Goldsmith stated that issues of integrity—about which Davies had previously not informed authorities—were behind the departure. The minister thanked Davies for his long years of service but acknowledged the resignation would be disappointing for Defence Force personnel.
The Minister added that he would recommend to the Governor-General that Davies’ resignation be accepted. The matter is to be reviewed by the relevant independent oversight body.
Led the Defence Force since 2024
Davies joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force in 1984 and held various leadership and management roles throughout his career. In 2016, he became head of the Air Force, and two years later he was appointed Deputy Chief of the Defence Force.
He assumed command of the New Zealand Defence Force on 6 June 2024. His sudden departure now brings a change at the highest military post in the country.
Davies said he now plans to focus on his family and asked for privacy. The Defence Force reported it is preparing for a leadership transition.
Mat Williams to serve as interim chief
Following Davies’ resignation, leadership of the Defence Force will temporarily fall to his deputy, Rear Admiral Mat Williams. Williams will serve as acting chief until a permanent decision is made.
The transition is intended to ensure the continued functioning of the Defence Force as the case is investigated.
The duration of the inquiry and whether it will result in further disciplinary or institutional actions remain unclear. No further comments will be made at this time, the Defence Force said.
Case raises questions about military leadership responsibility
The departure of such a high-ranking commander highlights the importance of transparency and adherence to rules within the armed forces. Those in leadership roles are expected not only to possess professional competence but also to uphold ethical standards and disclose any circumstances that may be relevant to performing their duties.
In Davies’ case, the public has yet to learn all the details about the relationship or what specific rules might have applied. The Inspector-General’s review is expected to clarify these issues.
Further developments will show whether the investigation leads to additional findings and what measures the Defence Force will take. Davies, however, has already announced his resignation and accepted responsibility for his previous decisions.
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This article was translated from the original Slovak version with the assistance of AI.
