A "world-first" broadband-based system for managing vineyards remotely has been launched by New Zealand's Frontier Global joint venture, which involves Corbans Viticulture and Frontier Mapping, reports the New Zealand Herald.

The Christchurch-based JV will expand the internet viticulture information system ( VIS ) business, first in New Zealand and then internationally. It is being put to trial at four vineyards around the country. VIS enables vineyards to manage vineyard functions - such as sprinklers - via PCs or hand-held devices.

Corbans Viticulture CEO Dennis Lunken says: "The venture aims bringing a holistic technological approach to vineyard planting, establishment and management."

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