Yes - most of the mesh solutions out there now all have router capabilities. I won't mention any brands because I'm not a huge fan of them as a solution so don't want anything to be seen as a recommendation.

What's the problem with mesh?

the modem sent out is the only modem skinny support, pays to make sure your aware of that.

nothing will stop you from just using another, but if you have any issues, you will be expected to plugin the modem you got with the service to troubleshoot.

Can you plug 'n play with these systems without having to configure the ONT (presumably only Skinny/Chorus can do that anyway). Is it easy to configure the mesh connection to the ONT?

there is no configuration for the ONT. you just plug your device into it. you device needs to be able to be configured for the type of internet connection your ISP supply's you.

pbtech has a tonne of guys on how to configure different routers

OwenWatson:

 

Can you plug 'n play with these systems without having to configure the ONT (presumably only Skinny/Chorus can do that anyway). Is it easy to configure the mesh connection to the ONT?

 

You don't need to configure the ONT. You will need to set VLAN ID on the new router if your ISP requires it. You will also have to set PPPoE username/password on the new router if your ISP requires it.

Google Wifi works well with Skinny if you're into using Google products.