finishing water-stained maple

I have acquired a couple of benches, Queensland maple, which were factory stripped some years ago & have since been sitting in storage. They have gathered some water stains over the years but otherwise are in reasonable shape to start refinishing. I would very much appreciate the advice of all you experts including
a) treatment of the water stains
b) grade of sandpaper to use initially
c) whether a color stain should be required at all
d) suitable preparation to achieve a flat or low-sheen finish & number of coats needed (also what grade sandpaper to use in between coats)
e) any other information which might be helpful!