A partner at a top law firm has resigned following an investigation into complaints about inappropriate comments made while drunk.

Russell McVeagh board chairman Malcolm Crotty made the announcement today.

"A thorough investigation substantiates the complaints and the partner concerned has apologised and tendered his resignation," Crotty said.

"We are deeply disappointed in the partner at the centre of the investigation.

"The partner concerned let the firm down and we have now lost trust and confidence in him. The Board determined that his conduct has fallen below our expected standards and we have accepted his resignation."

Crotty said there was no place for inappropriate conduct at the firm but he was encouraged that staff had spoken up despite the circumstances.

The firm was committed to changing the culture of the organisation, he said.

"We all recognise that change requires collective and long-term commitment. All partners in the firm agreed to uphold and lead the change."

He said the firm had arranged to meet with the New Zealand Law Society.