The head of New Zealand's armed forces, Tony Davis, resigned on Friday after admitting to having an inappropriate romantic relationship while serving as commander of a military unit. The resignation of the senior military official has sparked backlash in the country, with Davis himself accepting responsibility for his actions, stating that they conflicted with the values ​​and standards of the armed forces.

In an official statement, he explained that the decision to leave was related to personal reasons and past mistakes, for which he expressed regret. "My mistakes were contrary to the values ​​of the Armed Forces. These issues related to an inappropriate relationship I had while I was a unit commander and I regret that I did not declare it when I had the opportunity to do so," Davis said. New Zealand's Defense Minister, Paul Goldsmith, reacted to the resignation, stressing that the circumstances of the army chief's departure will cause great disappointment among military personnel.

He praised Davis' 42 years of service, but stressed that integrity issues, which had not been previously disclosed, had made it impossible for him to continue in office.

"I recognise his 42 years of service and contribution to the New Zealand Armed Forces. The reasons for his decision relate to integrity issues, which he had not previously disclosed. We both agree that his position is no longer sustainable," the minister said. Meanwhile, the New Zealand Armed Forces have announced that they will not be commenting further on the matter. The case has been referred to an independent inspector general, who has the power to review and investigate issues relating to the conduct of military personnel, transparency and possible violations within the institution.

Tony Davis joined the New Zealand Air Force in 1984 and was appointed Chief of the Armed Forces in 2024. His resignation comes after more than four decades of military career.