Model:

GFS (Global Forecast System) Global Model from the "National Centers for Environmental Prediction" (NCEP)

Updated:
4 times per day, from 3:30, 09:30, 15:30 and 21:30 UTC
Greenwich Mean Time:
12:00 UTC = 01:00 NZDT
Resolution:
0.5° x 0.5° for forecast time <= 384 hrs
Parameter:
Wind 10 meters above the ground
Description:
This chart displays the modeled average wind vector in 10 m above the ground for every grid point of the model (ca. every 80 km). In general, the actual observed wind velocity at 10 m above ground is a little bit lower than the modeled one. However, usually the computed wind velocity is pretty close to the reality. Therefore this chart is very useful for sailors, gliders, hang gliders and balloon pilots. (wind-converter)
NWP:
Numerical weather prediction uses current weather conditions as input into mathematical models of the atmosphere to predict the weather. Although the first efforts to accomplish this were done in the 1920s, it wasn't until the advent of the computer and computer simulation that it was feasible to do in real-time. Manipulating the huge datasets and performing the complex calculations necessary to do this on a resolution fine enough to make the results useful requires the use of some of the most powerful supercomputers in the world. A number of forecast models, both global and regional in scale, are run to help create forecasts for nations worldwide. Use of model ensemble forecasts helps to define the forecast uncertainty and extend weather forecasting farther into the future than would otherwise be possible.

Wikipedia, Numerical weather prediction, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerical_weather_prediction(as of Feb. 9, 2010, 20:50 UTC).