Rod Drury, the 2026 New Zealander of the Year and founder of Xero, has rejected allegations of misconduct involving a former employee, following confirmation that a police complaint has been filed.
The complaint relates to alleged misconduct dating back to 2017, when former Xero staff member Ally Naylor was working in a junior role at the company.
In response, Drury issued a statement describing his past connection with Naylor as a “limited, consensual relationship.”
Drury said in his statement that he has consistently aimed to be “open and honest throughout his life.”
“I do not intend to engage in public back-and-forth on private matters or cause further distress to those involved. However, given the relentless nature of the reporting, I believe it is important to provide context.”
“I reject any allegation of wrongdoing.”
“Reports have mischaracterised the nature of a friendship over several years. Ally Naylor and I had a limited, consensual relationship 10 years ago.”
He further stated that Naylor was a “willing participant” in the relationship, which he said developed through close professional collaboration and shared experiences as parents of similarly aged children.
“We spent time together socially, including her arranging a visit to my holiday home over summer.”
“I have given that detail reluctantly to give more context and accuracy to the nature of the relationship because the media reporting has been selective and misleading. Any other relationships I had over that period were consensual and mutual.”
Drury said that Xero conducted an internal investigation during 2017 and 2018 and that prior to this process he had “no idea” Naylor viewed the relationship as anything other than “consensual and mutual.”
“After the investigation concluded, I stayed on the board for several years. From my perspective the matter was closed.”
“I hope this public experience and scrutiny doesn’t dissuade other New Zealanders from participating in public awards and honours.”
“I know I may be criticised by some for making this statement, but, given the level of attention and the way this has been reported, I believe it is important to set the record straight for my sake and my family’s. I would like to continue focusing on the New Zealand Inc. projects, thought leadership and the many philanthropic initiatives I’ve dedicated my post-career life to.”