Craig case could set NZ record

A defamation expert says the $ 1.3 million in damages former Conservative Party leader Colin Craig has been ordered to pay Jordan Williams i s “breathtaking” and could make legal history.

A jury in the High Court at Auckland yesterday found in favour of Williams on two of the counts of defamation he laid against Craig.

Auckland University Associate Professor of Law Bill Hodge described the award as incredible.

“It’s breathtaking, eye- watering and mind- boggling,” Hodge said.

“It’s like an American defamation case — seven figures. New Zealand decision makers and juries are modest in awarding damages . . . Defamation lawyers and academics around the world will be following it closely.”

Craig said he planned to make submissions to the court, but he would also have to “deal with things at a personal level”.

He paid tribute to his wife Helen for standing by him.

Craig said she was fully informed about the information that came out regarding his relationship with Rachel MacGregor, his former press secretary.

"For the entire court ( case) she has been with me, except when she hasn't been allowed in the court room, which she wasn't until she gave evidence.

"I just have nothing but the greatest things that I can say about my wife Helen. She's amazing and she's with me through the whole thing.

Despite the decision, he told Newstalk ZB that he did not regret putting out the pamphlets which Williams sued over.