Golf then fishing at Lake Rotoiti

Moose Lodge & Golf Resort on the shores of Lake Rotoiti, is a place where Queen Elizabeth and the royal family have twice stayed.

Built in 1898 by an Auckland-based Canadian dentist, Dr Frederick John Raynor, as a private retreat, it continues to operate "in the style of a bygone era," says a spokesperson.

The 40ha property provides peace, tranquillity, beauty, and - since 1994 - its own nine-hole golf course.

Refurbished in 1995, it has retained its "old-world lodge-style charm," but has been brought up to international standards with new plumbing, heating, communication systems, and conference facilities.

The property has a tennis court, helipad, 20 suites, a new 40-seat conference room and 43-seat restaurant. A new west wing includes a gymnasium and a hot mineral pool. The lakeside mineral bath house has been retained.

A natural trout spawning stream runs through the golf course which, the spokesperson says, provides golfers with many challenges.

Careful attention has been given to each suite - four deluxe suites have private spa baths - to give them a different character.

The lodge has thermostatically-controlled heating throughout and guests can enjoy pre-dinner cocktails or an after-dinner cigar and cognac in front of two cosy fireplaces. Or they can relax in either of the two mineral pools.

Winter is a "special" time at the lodge because it has been improved to be "wonderful for guests all year round," says the spokesperson.

Dining is in the traditional style - pre-dinner cocktails are served in the main lounge, followed by a candle-lit dinner. Menus are prepared daily and coffee is served from silver pots.

"Moose Lodge offers our guests the very best of a private retreat and hideaway," the spokesperson says.

"Our team will go out of our way to make guests feel at home in this magnificent property where comfort and enjoyment is a priority."

In keeping with the setting, there are no mini-bars or televisions in the suites and no newspaper waiting outside the door each morning. The lodge will supply newspapers if required, however.

Guests are encouraged to use the lodge as a home-away-from-home.

"Wander through the property. Fall asleep in front of the fireplace in winter, read in the library, soak in the hot mineral baths, or have a game of tennis or billiards whenever you feel like it."