New Zealand Legislation: Acts
Acts are laws made by Parliament
(1) In any proceedings for defamation, the plaintiff may seek a declaration that the defendant is liable to the plaintiff in defamation.
(2) Where, in any proceedings for defamation,—
(a) The plaintiff seeks only a declaration and costs; and
(b) The Court makes the declaration sought,—
the plaintiff shall be awarded solicitor and client costs against the defendant in the proceedings, unless the Court orders otherwise.