If you know the long, cold winter might end up being a bit more of a long, wet winter, it pays to stock up on some fun and exciting things to do well in advance. Cue fun and exciting idea number one. Golf.

Grab a round of 18-holes for two people at Formosa Golf Resort in Beachlands, plus a two-person golf cart hire, and pay just $69, or go for nine holes for two people with two-person cart hire for just $35.

Formosa Golf Resort is a sight to behold. Picture this: 18 holes, cliff-top and coastal fairways, blooming Pohutukawas, and panoramic views of Waiheke and Rangitoto Islands, and the Coromandel Peninsula. Combine that with a couple of rounds of golf on one of the most picturesque courses in the region, and you've got an excellent day out well worth remembering. But don't just take our word for it: Formosa features in The Finest Golf Clubs of the World list and hosted the 1998 New Zealand Open too. Spread over 440 acres, making it the country's longest championship course, the 18-hold course was designed by Sir Bob Charles and has a par of 72, longer than any other existing course in New Zealand. There are 4 tees per hole: forward, regular, championship, and professional; so that everyone can play and enjoy the course.

Your day doesn't have to be over when you finish your round of golf either. Head to the Formosa Cascade Restaurant for a bite to eat with a touch of style, or check into one of the 50 well-appointed luxury villas for an overnight stay. If you're keen to practise your swing a little more, head to the all-weather under cover driving range. And if you don't have your own gear, head to the pro shop to hire - or buy - some good quality golfing gear that will get you closer to getting that hole in one.