New Zealand’s top military commander, Air Marshal Tony Davies, resigned on Friday after admitting to an “inappropriate relationship” that he had not previously disclosed.
Davies said his resignation stemmed from past errors of judgement that were contrary to the values of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).
“The resignation is for personal reasons, and results from errors of judgement made by me in the past, for which I am taking responsibility,” he said in an official statement.
“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 added.
The matter has been referred to the inspector-general of defence.
Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith confirmed Davies had stepped down and said he would recommend to Governor-General Cindy Kiro that she accept the resignation, Radio New Zealand reported.
“The reasons regarding his decision relate to integrity matters, that he did not previously disclose. We both agree his position is no longer tenable,” Goldsmith said.
The NZDF is arranging the transfer of responsibilities to Vice Chief of the Defence Force Rear Admiral Mat Williams, who will serve as acting chief of the Defence Force.
