Rachel Smalley from Newstalk ZB Supplied NZH
Former TV3 host, now Newstalk ZB host Rachel Smalley says the 6pm news format is "dying" and the channel's decision to rebrand the slot is "smart".
Her comments, on Twitter, come after MediaWorks announced the end of 3News.
The 6pm bulletin will be rebranded Newshub Live.
It comes as the channel integrates its media platforms - bringing television, radio and digital news services into the one Newshub.
The new service will be launched on Feburary 1, with the 6pm bulletin to be presented by veteran anchors Hilary Barry and Mike McRoberts.
The news came as anchor Carolyn Robinson left the broadcaster.
Robinson, who has worked at Mediaworks for 15 years, is said to be looking forward to "having her weekends back and spending them with family".
The channel's midday news show will be presented by journalist Jeff McTainsh, while Samantha Hayes will anchor the channel's late current affairs programme. Melissa Davies and Tom McRae will host the weekend's news programmes.
The Australian site cited a 'heightened threat level' as the issue.