Apple Tv and other alternatives

yesterday received an email from Apple re their new Apple TV system and also know of other suppliers such as telecom broadband system etc for ordering movies via hire etc.

We are still on Sky but I realise we pay a fortune compared to Europe etc, so for those up to speed with these alternatives, how do you find them and are you happy? My biggest thing would be losing UK TV which I really enjoy for the few programmes I record....

are bigger things to come to NZ?