KEY POINTS:
Sky News is to launch its own local news bulletin this evening, Sky News New Zealand Evening News, presented by Prime News anchor Eric Young.
The half-hour bulletin will be broadcast from Prime's Albany studio and will draw on Prime News' resources and Sky News' 24-hour news service.
The re-packaged version of the bulletin will be screened at 8.30pm and 9pm, allowing the network to follow developing news stories.
The move is one of several programming changes aimed at strengthening the network's commitment to local news production, according to Sky Television's director of communications Tony O'Brien.
"This gives New Zealanders even more choice as to when they can watch television news. While other services are downsizing, we are expanding."
Fellow Prime News anchor Suzy Clarkson will present the programme on Friday and Saturday nights while Young will take on Sunday to Thursday duties.
