Quickflix, the Australian counterpart of US-based Netflix -- which is known for its online DVD rental service -- is expected to launch in New Zealand on Thursday, Dominion Post reports.

Quickflix subscribers get unlimited online access to hundreds of films and TV shows for A$15 (NZ$19) per month. The company has more than 110,000 customers in Australia, with most users renting DVDs by mail. The films and TV programmes are viewed on Internet-connected televisions and computers.

Just last year, Quickflix signed a deal with Sony allowing it to simply stream films and programmes direct to Sony's PlayStation consoles.

Quickflix's availability in NZ is seen to provide diversity with Sky Television, even as Quickflix has a relatively more limited range of online content.

This developed as Labour communications spokeswoman Clare Curran said Tuesday Sky's contracts with internet providers are being reviewed thoroughly with section 47 of the Commerce Act, as some clauses in the agreements could provide no room for competition in the market.

Speaking to Dominion Post, Quickflix spokesman Tony O'Brien said it would comment "if and when the service launches in New Zealand."