Full Breakdown
Air Marshal Tony Davies Resigns Amid Alleged Affair and Handling of a Complaint
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Resignation Tied to an Alleged Inappropriate Relationship and Its Aftermath
Air Marshal Tony Davies stepped down as Chief of Defence Force of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) late on a Friday, citing “personal reasons” and “errors of judgment” linked to an alleged inappropriate relationship while he held unit command. Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith called the resignation an “integrity matter” and said the case has been referred to Inspector-General Tim Brewer.
Background & Context
- 2006 alleged affair – Kate Staunton, a former RNZAF flight sergeant, says her former partner began an intimate relationship with a subordinate sergeant during a Middle-East deployment, breaching NZDF orders that prohibit fraternisation on operations. The partner and the woman involved deny the relationship started while deployed.
- 2019 complaint – Staunton raised the allegation with her chain of command; NZDF records show 40 Squadron commanders were informed.
- September 2025 formal complaint – Staunton lodged a formal complaint alleging NZDF failed to uphold its own standards.
Timeline
- 2006 – Alleged relationship occurs during a Middle-East deployment.
- 2019 – Initial complaint made; commanders notified.
- September 2025 – Formal complaint filed.
- July 14 – Assistant Chief Workforce and Partnerships Tjene Tedeschi confirmed commanders had been informed in 2019 and said Staunton, as a “third party,” had no right to disciplinary outcomes.
- Late on a Friday (prior to July 14) – Davies resigns.
Official Statements & Responses
- Paul Goldsmith, Defence Minister – Described the resignation as an “integrity matter” and noted the referral to Inspector-General Brewer.
- Ruth Money, Chief Victims Adviser – Said inconsistent policy application undermines confidence and called for transparent handling of relationships.
- Matthew Hague, lawyer for Staunton – Called Staunton’s actions courageous and urged transparent treatment of any intra-unit relationship.
- Major General Rose King, Chief of Army – Served as acting Chief of Defence Force until Vice Chief Rear Admiral Mat Williams took over the following Sunday.
Criticism & Opposition
Staunton argues the NZDF’s response reflects a “historical, systemic toxic culture” that protects misconduct. She says the lack of transparency damaged her mental health, leading to medical release after 26 years of service. Her lawyer and victims-advocate echo calls for consistent accountability and clearer processes for protected disclosures.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Timing of the alleged affair – Staunton maintains it began during the deployment; the former partner and the woman involved claim it started later.
- Transparency of investigations – Staunton says she never received inquiry outcomes, while NZDF officials say the matter was handled “on a staff-in-confidence basis” and she was not entitled to details.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Others who were aware of the alleged inappropriate conduct said nothing, choosing instead to stand by and allow the young woman to deal with the aftermath entirely on her own.” — Kate Staunton
What’s Next
NZDF has received a list of questions from the Herald concerning Davies’s conduct and Staunton’s complaint and will respond “in due course.” The acting chiefs will oversee the force while the Inspector-General conducts its review.